Did you know there are over a million young carers aged 17 and under in the UK? And on top of that, more than 600,000 young adult carers aged 18 to 25 are stepping up to support family members or friends who are living with long-term disabilities, illnesses, or addiction. These incredible young people are doing far more than you might imagine—and often with very little recognition or help.
Let’s take a moment to reflect on this. More than 139,000 children and young people are providing care for someone with a long-term illness or disability for over 20 hours every single week. That’s like having a part-time job before you’ve even hit adulthood! And even more astonishing, over 50,000 of them are dedicating 50 hours or more each week to their caring responsibilities. Think about that – 50 hours! These young carers are navigating challenges most adults would struggle with. Our Young People’s Service have over 3000 young carers and young adult carers registered with them, 65% of those are under the age of 11.
What does their day-to-day look like? For some, it means ensuring a parent or sibling with a long-term condition takes their medication at the right time throughout the day. For others, it’s managing household shopping and making sure bills get paid. These responsibilities go far beyond what most of us experienced growing up.
The truth is, many young carers and young adult carers feel they’re missing out on childhood -days that should be filled with play, learning, and exploration. Instead, their caring role often impacts their ability to focus on schoolwork, pursue hobbies, and build their future. Even worse, far too many of these children and young people are left to navigate their responsibilities alone, with little or no support.
This is where Suffolk Family Carers comes in. We provide dedicated support to young carers by offering one-on-one guidance, fun respite activities, support in schools and essential resources to help them balance their caring roles with their own wellbeing and aspirations. Whether it’s connecting them with peer groups, offering advice on managing responsibilities, or simply giving them the chance to take a well-earned break, Our Young People’s Team ensure that these young heroes are never alone in their journey.
Check out these wonderful stories from a few of our Young Carers.
What are Young Carers entitled to...
All Young Carers are legally entitled to a Young Carers Needs Assessment. It is a conversation carried out by an adviser (on behalf of Suffolk County Council) to understand the needs, aspirations, and challenges faced by the young carer. It identifies what support they require to balance their caring responsibilities with their education, social life, and overall wellbeing, ensuring they have access to the resources they need to thrive.
Young Carers are also entitled to a Transitions Assessment this is separate to a Young Carers Needs Assessment. There is not a minimum age for a young carer to have a Transitions Assessment but needs to be completed before the young person turns 18.
We acknowledge that becoming a young adult can be a challenging time for the young carer and the person they care for. Working with an Adviser, you will be supported to think about and plan for your future aspirations.
Speak to an adviser for further advice on Young Carers entitlements.
Do you want to see change for Young Carers?
No young person should have to see their life chances shrink because they’ve taken on a caring role at home. It’s time for change. It’s time for us to rally together – whether you’re part of a government, a school, a charity, a health service, a business, or simply a caring member of your community.
That’s why Carers Trust have created the Young Carers Covenant. This important initiative is here to guide everyone towards making life better for young carers and young adult carers. Together, we can ensure they receive the support they need and deserve. Let’s work towards a future where every young carer feels valued, supported, and free to chase their dreams. Because they deserve it – and if we all play our part, we can make it happen.
