We define a ‘Young Carer’ as anyone aged between 5-17 that is significantly impacted by the diagnosed health condition, disability or substance misuse of a close relative. This means someone they live with or see on a daily basis.
More information about Young Carers
The 2011 Census recorded more than 200,000 Young Carers in the UK. However, a 2010 BBC survey estimated that there are about 700,000.
The average age of a Young Carer is 13, but they can be as young as 5 years old.
A 2010 Carers Trust survey found that 68.5% of the 700 Young Carers surveyed had experienced bullying or social isolation, often because of their caring role.
The Carers Trust survey also found that 39.4% of the Young Carers surveyed had not informed their school about their caring role.
