How To Help A Friend Who’s A Young Carer

What is a young carer?

“There are more than one million carers aged under 18 in the UK – that’s two pupils in every classroom – and an estimated 600,000 others aged 18-25. At least 50,000 children and young people, including 3,000 aged just five to nine, spend 50 hours or more a week looking after ill or disabled family members.” – Andy McGowan, Carers Trust’s policy and practice manager

How does being a young carer impact their lives?

“Imagine a world where your childhood and teenage years were spent not just navigating school and friendships, but also managing chores such as cooking and cleaning, looking after a family member, and dealing with complex tasks like managing medications and offering emotional support. This is the reality for young people who care for family members that may have physical or mental illness and disabilities, or struggle with addiction. They are resilient children and teens who, with love and dedication, support their families in ways that are both inspiring and incredibly challenging.” – Linda Littler, service manager (young carers) at The Children's Society

So, what you can do to help?

Be Aware

“The biggest difference that individuals and communities can do to support young carers is being aware of them – it might be your next door neighbour is a young carer, or someone at your drama/sports club, or just someone you know. There’s likely to be two young carers in every class, so the chances are you will know one of them. If you think someone is a young carer, or there is a young carer in the family, talking to them and letting them know there is support available can make a huge difference.” – Andy

Notice The Signs

“If you think your friend might be a young carer – maybe they talk about their autistic brother, or their dad being unwell again, or they are often helping look after their nan – the best thing you can do is to ask if they have heard about young carers and to encourage them to speak to a teacher they trust to find out about the support available. Even if they don’t need support now, it’s always helpful to know what is available. And if they cancel plans because of their home situation, be understanding and make sure you keep inviting them to things.” – Andy

“Young carers can sometimes remain under the radar due to cultural stigmas, fear of authority, or simply because their role isn't recognised. It's crucial for everyone — from professionals such as teachers to the wider community like neighbours —to keep an eye out and think ’young carer’ when interacting with children and families. That means we turn awareness into action so that no young carer goes unnoticed. In the end, young carers are extraordinary individuals who must use their strength, resilience, and love. As a society, it's our duty to recognise, support, and help them every step of the way. They're not just caring for others; they're shaping a more compassionate world for all of us.” – Linda

Fight Isolation

“If you help run activities or clubs for young people – sports teams and university or school clubs – then you can also think about how to remove barriers to take part. Are there bursaries you can provide, or can you relax your rules on how many sessions they are allowed to miss? Or even just ensuring your staff/volunteers are aware of young carers and how to link them into support. Another way you could help is by linking in with your local young carer service – maybe you could run a specific activity for their young carers, or reserve spaces for young carers? Many sports and leisure facilities and theatres will offer discounts or free tickets for young carers.” – Andy

Offer Emotional Support Without Overstepping

“When it comes to supporting young carers emotionally, respect and sensitivity are paramount. Recognising their right to privacy and control is crucial. Young carers should be in control of their own story; it is up to them to share what they feel comfortable sharing. Young carers often tell us that they are fed up with repeating their story to professionals and individuals so it is important that the right information is shared between services so young people don’t have to repeat it time and time again. Directing them towards local young carer services can also connect them with peers and tailored support, giving them support without infringing on their personal space.” – Linda

Finally, if you are a young carer… 

“All young carers also have the right to a Young Carers Assessment – this isn’t a test of how well young carers are caring – it’s a conversation to look at what support young carers might need. These are offered either by your local council, or through the local young carers service.” – Andy

“Some words of wisdom from fellow young carers that we have spoken to highlight the importance of looking after yourself and trying to have a positive outlook. Remembering that you're not alone and that caring for someone is a testament to your strength and compassion. Always be kind to yourself, for you are truly amazing.” – Linda

For more support and information, young carers and those who wish to help them can explore a range of resources and guidance at ChildrensSociety.org.uk and Carers.org website.