A young carer is someone who provides, or intends to provide, care for a family member who might have a disability, illness, mental health condition, or alcohol or drug problem.

The care might include physical jobs in and around the home, such as cleaning, cooking, helping someone dress, or supporting them to move about. It can include emotional support too.

Some people start giving care at a very young age and don’t realise they are carers. Other young people might become carers overnight due to a sudden illness or accident.

It’s understandable that if someone in your family needs care, then you may really want to help them. BUT as a young carer you shouldn’t be expected to do the same things as adult carers. It’s also important to decide whether you’re the right person to offer the care that’s needed.

With yours and your parents’ consent, a social worker from your local council can visit to carry out a young carer’s assessment.

This assessment is completed by asking questions and making observations. The assessor will ask about your caring role, how often you provide care, what type of care you might provide and how it affects you. The social worker must also look at your education, training, leisure opportunities and view about your future. As part of the assessment, the social worker must also ask about your wishes and involve you, your parents, and anyone else you or your parents want to be involved.

Everyone should receive a written record of the assessment. It will include whether the council thinks you need support, whether they have a service that can support you and also whether they will give it to you. It should also explain what you can do if you or your parents disagree with the assessment.

If you would like to have a young carer’s assessment and live in Swansea visit Swansea Council’s Young Carer’s and Young Adult Carer’s page. Not in Swansea and live in Neath Port Talbot? Visit the Neath Port Talbot Young Carers Service.