Members of a family will often take on the role of family carers. There are a number of children who provide care when a parent or other family member becomes ill. Some will provide occasional help and others will do more, depending on their circumstances.

The caring role is a great responsibility for a child. Caring can be both physically and emotionally demanding. Taking on a caring role can mean less time spent at school and with friends. The child or teenager may be often tired or less able to concentrate. They can become depressed and isolated. Taking on a caring role may also affect the relationship between siblings.

Teenagers can sometimes try to cope alone. They may not tell anyone what is happening at home. Talking to a school counsellor can be very helpful.

If a family member is caring for a relative or friend, their children may have to do more to help out at home.

Resources

• Carers Australia has a separate website with practical information and resources for young carers
• Information for young carers is available from the NHS choices website (UK)
• The Headroom website has information about positive mental health.

Related CareSearch pages

Young carers
Talking with children
Children and grief and loss

This page was created on 26 May 2009 and is due for review in May 2011*