🎓 Carers Week 2025: Shining a Light on Young Carers
As we continue to mark Carers Week 2025, today we’re highlighting a group of carers who are often hidden in plain sight — young carers.
Across the UK, thousands of children and teenagers take on caring responsibilities for a parent, sibling, or relative due to disability, illness, or addiction. While they show incredible strength and maturity, many are missing out on their education, social lives, and childhood.
At Caremark Barking, Dagenham and Newham, we believe that no child should have to sacrifice their future to provide care without the right support.
👧🏾 Who Are Young Carers?
A young carer is anyone under 18 who helps to look after a family member. Their responsibilities often include:
- Personal care (washing, dressing)
- Managing medication
- Translating or interpreting for a parent with health issues
- Emotional support and household tasks
According to Carers Trust, 1 in 5 secondary school children in the UK may be a young carer. Many don’t even realise they are carers or are too afraid to ask for help.
📚 The Impact on Their Lives
Young carers are more likely to:
- Miss school or perform poorly
- Experience mental health struggles
- Feel isolated and stressed
- Lose out on friendships and life opportunities
Early intervention and recognition are vital.
🧭 Local Help for Young Carers in Barking, Dagenham & Newham
Support is available — but awareness is key. If you work with children or young people, or suspect someone may be a young carer, here are some local resources:
At Caremark Barking, Dagenham and Newham, we also provide respite services for families, offering relief to carers of all ages — including young people.
🌟 Carers Week 2025: Let’s Make Them Visible
This Carers Week 2025, we stand with young carers.
We’re raising awareness in schools, encouraging professionals to ask the right questions, and reminding families that help is available.
If you know a young carer or suspect a child is taking on caring responsibilities, speak up. A little support goes a long way.