The Department for Education (DfE) defines a young carer as a child or young person under the age of 18 who regularly helps to care for a family member or friend who has a physical or mental health condition, disability, or substance misuse issue. This care goes beyond what would normally be expected for their age.
What might a young carer do?
- Practical tasks, like cooking, housework and shopping.
- Physical care, such as helping someone out of bed.
- Emotional support, including talking to someone who is distressed.
- Personal care, such as helping someone dress.
- Managing the family budget and collecting prescriptions.
- Helping to give medicine.
- Helping someone communicate.
- Looking after brothers and sisters.