Top Tips for Young Carers: Support, Strength & Self-Care
Being a young person is already full of challenges—from school and exams to friendships and figuring out who you are. But for thousands of young people across the UK, there’s another big responsibility added to that list: caring for someone at home.
These incredible young people are known as young carers—and they deserve recognition, support, and advice that truly understands their world.
👤 What Is a Young Carer?
A young carer is someone under the age of 18 (or up to 25 if they’re a young adult carer) who helps look after a family member or friend due to:
Illness or disability
Mental health difficulties
Alcohol or substance misuse
Age-related conditions
Young carers may help with cooking, cleaning, personal care, emotional support, shopping, or managing medication. Some care for a parent, others for a sibling or grandparent.
💬 The Hidden Challenges Young Carers Face
While many young carers take pride in what they do, caring responsibilities can have a major impact on day-to-day life:
Missing school or struggling to focus
Feeling isolated or left out from friends
Experiencing stress, anxiety, or low mood
Having little or no time for hobbies or fun
Worrying about the future or what’s happening at home
It can feel like you’re carrying a heavy load—but you’re not alone.
🌟 Top Tips for Young Carers
Here are some practical and emotional tips to help young carers take care of others and themselves.
1. Talk to Someone You Trust
You don’t have to do this all on your own. Speak to a teacher, school nurse, youth worker, or a friend’s parent. You can also chat with professionals through online platforms like Bridgit Care. Talking can help relieve stress and open up support you didn’t know was there.
2. Make Time for You
Even just 15 minutes a day to do something you enjoy—like listening to music, gaming, drawing, or going for a walk—can help you recharge and protect your wellbeing. You matter too.
3. Get Support at School or College
Tell someone at your school or college that you’re a young carer. They can help you with flexible deadlines, extra support, or someone to talk to when things feel overwhelming.
4. Connect with Other Young Carers
Knowing that others understand what you’re going through can make a world of difference. Join a young carers group, attend events, or connect online to share experiences and make new friends.
5. Use Helpful Tools & Platforms
Services like Bridgit Care’s Young Carer Platform offer 24/7 guidance, self-help toolkits, live AI chat support, and local resources. You can create your own support plan and get information tailored to your situation—anytime you need it.
6. Ask for a Young Carer’s Assessment
You have the right to a Young Carer’s Assessment through your local council. This can help identify your needs and lead to extra support like respite breaks or help with school. Find out more through your local authority or carers organisation.
7. Remember: You Deserve Support
You’re doing something amazing—but you shouldn’t have to sacrifice your childhood or future to care. Help is out there, and you deserve every bit of it.
