A young carer may be dealing with a range of situations, such as disability, chronic illness, mental health difficulties or problems with drugs or alcohol misuse. If you are a young carer you can have an
assessment to find out what your rights are and what benefits and services you are entitled to.
You may be a young carer if you
- care for a family member, because of illness, disability or old age
- help someone with bathing or dressing
- help someone to go to the toilet or get into/out of bed
- do most of the cooking for your family
- look after money or organise the family budget
- help anyone to take medication regularly
- collect prescriptions or benefits on behalf of someone else
- go shopping for the family
- look after brothers or sisters, by taking them to school, doing their laundry, or cooking their meals
- take care of housework, such as dusting, hovering, washing or ironing;
- speak on behalf of someone who has difficulty speaking or communicating for themselves
- translate or interpret for someone at home
- have responsibilities at home that prevent you from spending time with your friends, or inviting them around your house
- feel sad, angry, embarrassed or guilty about the help you give to anyone at home
- feel jealous of friends who don't have the same responsibilities
- avoid telling anyone outside the family about your home situation.
If you want some advice you can contact your nearest group who will be able to help you.