Young Carers are defined as children and young people, who have a substantive caring role for a member of their family (child or adult) and whose health or development is affected due to that caring role. The tasks and level of caring undertaken by young carers can vary according to the nature of the illness or disability, the level and frequency of the care required and the structure of the family / wider support available. These tasks can include physical and personal care, emotional support, interpretation for non-English speaking family members and administering medication. As such, these young carers play an important role in society and deserve support to ensure that their personal, emotional, and educational development is not impeded whilst carrying out their caring responsibilities. Action for Children and Barnardo’s have services that are tailored to support and meet the needs of young carers. They offer recreational activities, one to one support and wellbeing therapeutic groups that link in with their caring role.
The Department will be supporting the EA, Action for Children and Barnardo’s to promote the guidance and support services available to children and young people with a caring role.
