What might a young carer do?

What sort of things might a young carer do?

Girl holding a jug of fruit juice

Young carers can take on a physical and/or emotional caring roles for close friends, parents or guardians, grandparents, siblings, or other family members.

Life for a young carer can be demanding, as they take on a caring role whilst attending school, studying for exams, and finding time for friends and caring for themselves.

Young carers may:

  • carry out practical tasks such as cooking, shopping, washing, or cleaning
  • help with money
  • look after their brothers and sisters
  • help somebody to communicate, or move around their home
  • help give medicines
  • help somebody get dressed
  • be an emotional support, such as being there to talk to someone about how they are feeling
  • offer other practical and emotional support