A Young Carer is a young person who cares, on a regular basis for a parent, sibling, grandparent or family friend who has an illness or disability.  This could be a mental or physical disability, substance misuse as well as those that may be terminally ill.  Young Carers will take on responsibilities that would not normally be expected of their peers.  They may be the main carer in the household.

Tasks may include personal care, domestic activities such as cleaning, laundry, preparing meals, shopping alongside financial management and emotional support.  They often have to collect medication and administer these.  They may also be required to attend medical appointments.

Young Carers may suffer from tiredness and emotional issues resulting in them being late into school, not completing homework.  This may present in poor behaviour, Young Carers may also be bullied because they cannot do activities with their peers, who often are not aware of their situation.