Young carers
Young carers are those under the age of 18 who provide care to another family member who has a physical illness or disability, mental health problem, sensory disability, learning difficulty or disability, or has a problem with drugs or alcohol.
You might not see yourself as a carer but if you live with someone who has a mental illness, the chances are that you spend some of your time looking after them and supporting them to stay well. As a young carer you have the right to an assessment of your needs, and support to make sure that you have access to the same opportunities as every other young person. This may be support to do well at school, or to find respite activities in your area.
Young carers may help with:
- washing or dressing
- housework, shopping or cooking
- medication, appointments, or bills
- looking after younger brothers or sisters, or providing emotional support.
For more information and support for young carers contact:
Family Action Islington and Camden Young Carers' Service which provides services such as home visits, whole family support, help with problems at school and information and advice.
Useful leaflets
Family Action have created the following leaflets, which the Trust is in full support of: