Finding support as a young carer
From supporting someone with complex needs, to navigating the world of money, we know that there are lots of diverse issues that matter to young and young adult carers. On this page you’ll find lots of helpful resources and interesting content, including links to group chats, e-learning courses and useful apps, articles and videos.
Carers group chats
Speak to other carers and find support from a community that understands what you’re going through. The Mix runs group chats for any carers aged up to 25 years old, every Monday from 8-9.30pm. The chat will appear on the link below when the chat rooms are open.
Am I a young carer?
I'm a young carer and I look after my mum
Life as a young carer can be full of challenges, but it can also be extremely empowering. The skill set and maturity developed massively builds your character. However, one major challenge comes as young carers look to the future; how their goals and aspirations coincide with their caring roles. This video is narrated by a young carer called Mariam.
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FAQs
How do I know if I’m a young carer?
You’re a young carer if you’re under 18 and help to look after a relative or friend with a disability, illness, mental health condition, or drug or alcohol problem.
What’s a young adult carer?
Young adult carers are young people aged 16–25 who care, unpaid, for a family member or friend with an illness or disability, mental health condition or an addiction.
What kind of things do young carers and young adult carers do?
If you’re a young carer or young adult carer, you probably look after one of your parents or care for a brother or sister. Every carer’s experience is unique, and your caring may range from small tasks, to round-the-clock-care.
You may do practical jobs such as cooking, housework and shopping; physical care such as lifting and helping someone up the stairs; personal care such as dressing and washing someone; and emotional support such as listening and calming someone.
How can I get support as a young carer?
There’s lots of support available for young carers and young adult carers, and it’s important that you make sure you’re getting all the help you need. You can get in touch with support groups, where you can talk to other carers who will have similar experiences to you; try The Mix’s young carer’s group chat.
Talk to your school or employer about your role as a carer to make sure they are supporting you as much as they can. You can also reach out to specialist organisations, such as Carer’s Trust.
Our partners
We work in partnership with Carers Trust and Quilter Foundation on this project and would like to thank them for their collaboration, support and expert insights.
