You Are Not Alone

The data regarding the number of young carers in the UK is very poor. The UK Census 2011 said there were over 177,000 children in England and Wales performing caring tasks. However, research conducted by the BBC in 2010 suggests there could be 700,000 young carers in the UK. This figure could also be inaccurate because many young carers are not known about, and therefore the actual number could be much higher.

The personal circumstances of young carers can vary significantly. Some will be caring for someone with a physical problem, a mental problem, or perhaps both. Some young carers are known about and are in supportive families, possibly with other family members also providing care. These are given love, kindness, encouragement and practical help. Others are not known about and may receive no support. Some may even have been deliberately left to cope with extremely difficult situations.