How to identify a young carer and how you can help them.
A young carer is a child or young person who looks after someone in their family.
You'll be able to identify a young carer if they mention they do tasks around the home such as:
- cooking for family members
- helping to look after siblings
- managing money or bills
- organising appointments
They may also talk about helping family members with:
- going to the toilet
- eating
- getting dressed
- washing or bathing
- taking medication
- Identify a young carer
The child or young person might not realise that they're a young carer or that there's anything unusual in their circumstances.
We call these hidden young carers.
If they don't talk about their caring then there are signs you can spot. A young carer might often:
- be late for class or absent
- leave school early
- seem anxious
- be tired in lessons
- look untidy
Support for young carers
Young carers need support. They also need reassurance that they can get help caring for their family. They should know that they won't be separated from their families if they accept help.
How to get them carer support
Speak to your school's young carer's lead
If your school has a young carer's lead then you should speak to them. They'll have special training in young carer's issues, and will know how to get help and support for the carer.
Contact the Carers Support Centre
If your school doesn't have a young carer's lead then contact the Carers Support Centre and make a referral.
You'll need the young carer's:
- permission
- full name
- phone number
The Carers Support Centre will contact the young carer and assess what support they need.
Support for your school
The Young Carers in Schools Programme can give advice and help your school identify young carers and understand their needs.
If you're concerned about the young carer's health and safety
Contact our First Response Team if you're concerned about their health and wellbeing.