Young Carers are children who look after a friend or family member, due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction. They often take on responsibilities normally expected of an adult. They can struggle to balance caring with going to school, doing homework, and making time for themselves and their friends.

• • One in five schoolchildren are Young Carers.
  • There are more than 10,000 Young Carers in Essex.
  • Some Carers are as young as five.

• • Cook and clean
  • Take brothers or sisters to school
  • Give medication
  • Provide emotional support
  • Accompany the person they care for to medical appointments.
  • Help pay the bills

Children often don’t realise they are a Young Carer. They are just getting on with supporting their parent, sibling or other relative or friend that couldn’t manage without their support.

“Being a Young Carer is not a choice; it’s just what we do”

Many Young Carers tell us they enjoy caring and it has taught them important life skills, but taking on adult responsibilities and worries whilst still being a child can have a significant impact. The children we work with tell us they:

• Feel isolated from their peers
• Can be bullied due to their caring role
• Miss school or fall behind with homework.
• Have less opportunity to socialise and do things other children take for granted
• Can feel stressed and anxious
• Are worried about their own future

By taking on caring responsibilities, many Young Carers are missing out on their childhoods.

“Caring isn’t just the time I’m physically spending with the people I care for; it’s also the free time I spend worrying.”

Action for Family Carers believes that all Young Carers should:

• • Be safe – including from inappropriate caring roles.
  • Be well – both physically and mentally.
  • Have access to regular breaks from caring and to mix socially with others.
  • Have choices that aren’t limited by their caring role.
  • Be able to enjoy their childhood and fulfil their potential.

“I have somebody to listen to me and I don’t worry as much”

We provide services for Young Carers aged 5 – 18 in Essex and their families so they get the support they deserve.  Whether they need somebody to talk to who understands or a break from caring and the chance to meet other Young Carers.