What to do

What’s a young carer

A young carer is somebody under 18 who looks after someone – often their Mum or Dad – who is physically or mentally ill, disabled, or has problems with drugs or alcohol.

Meet some of Barnardo’s young carers here

What kind of things does a young carer do?

Being a young carer can be physically and mentally tough, and they may have to take on really grown up responsibilities

Most parents really want to do their best but young carers may have to do things like help their Mum or Dad get out of bed, get washed and dress.

They might cook meals, do all the shopping and chores, and even give medicine or change bandages.

Some young carers also look after their brothers and sisters, doing things grown ups normally do, like sorting out money and paying the bills. Young carers can lose out on their childhood – they do vital work but it can mean they miss out on many of the usual fun things that other children are doing.

It can be really tiring and worrying being a young carer – they can end up getting behind at school, having no time or energy to go out and play with friends.

Young carers can get sad or upset and sometimes people make fun of them, or even bully them.

Money raised by the Disc Drive will help Barnardo's young carers in 3 ways:

1. Expert Help: we arrange sessions with Barnardo's support workers.
2. Reclaim Their Childhood: we give young carers a chance to take part in normal everyday activities and their own hobbies and interests, offering respite from their daily routine of care.
3. Contact With Other Young Carers: we help with clubs, support groups and networks so young carers can meet, relax and share stories.