What is a Young Carer?
A young carer is someone under 18 who takes on responsibilities normally handled by an adult. They may help care for a parent, sibling or other family member who is ill, disabled, or struggling with their mental health.
Their responsibilities can include:
- Helping with household tasks like washing and cleaning
- Giving medication or assisting with personal care
- Attending medical appointments
- Looking after younger siblings
- Supporting a parent with physical or emotional health
- Managing their own self-care
Every young carer’s experience is different but all deserve recognition and support.
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How you can support your child
Realising your child is a young carer can bring up a lot of emotions but you’re not alone, help is available.
Support for you might mean speaking to a GP, friend or family member.
Support for your child could include talking to someone at school or a Childline counsellor.
Need advice?
- Call our Helpline: 0808 800 5000
- Email: help@NSPCC.org.uk
- Visit childline.org.uk or call 0800 1111
Start the conversation
Your child might not identify as a young carer - and that’s okay. What matters is creating space for honest, open conversations.
Tips to build trust:
- Choose a quiet, familiar time and place
- Clarify the purpose - are you listening or offering advice?
- Let them lead the conversation
- Listen actively and reflect back what they share
- Avoid judgment - reassure them their feelings are valid
You don’t need to fix everything. Just being present and patient makes a difference.
Advocate for your child
You don’t have to do this alone. Schools, health professionals and councils all play a role in supporting young carers.
Schools
Start by contacting the headteacher or pastoral lead.
Schools may offer:
- Extra time or flexibility with homework and exams
- Permission to call home during the day
- Emotional support through staff or counsellors
GPs and Health Professionals
If your child is helping care for someone with health challenges, speak to your GP.
This helps:
- Keep your child informed in an age-appropriate way
- Clarify their role and boundaries
- Access additional support services
Local Authorities
Councils must offer a Young Carer’s Assessment to understand your child’s needs and provide support, regardless of who they care for.
- Find your local authority to request an assessment.
Charities that support young carers:
- The Children’s Society – runs the Young Carers Festival and helps connect families to support
- Sense – offers online and in-person activities
- The Mix – supports young carers up to age 25
Your child’s rights
Young carers have legal rights. Knowing them helps you advocate with confidence.
Legal protections:
- Whole-family approach – councils must consider everyone’s needs
- Young Carer’s Needs Assessment – looks at how caring affects your child’s wellbeing
- Transition support at 18 – required under the Care Act 2014
NHS responsibilities:
- Must identify young carers and refer them to support
- Integrated Care Boards must involve carers in service planning
- Mental health services must engage families meaningfully
How to support a child you think might be a young carer
You don’t need to be a parent to make a difference. Whether you’re a teacher, neighbour, relative or friend, your support matters.
As a teacher or education professional:
- Speak to the child sensitively and make adjustments
- Follow your school’s safeguarding policy
- Connect with organisations like Carers Trust for guidance
“I tried to explain why I was late with homework, but my tutor said I was making excuses. I wish she had listened.”
— Alex, former young carer
As a family member, friend or neighbour:
- Offer practical help such as running errands or cleaning
- Provide emotional support, listen without judgment
Even small actions can help a young carer feel less alone.
