‘Give Me A Break’ this Young Carers Action Day

Young Carers Action Day is an annual event, organised by Carers Trust, to raise awareness of young carers and the incredible contribution they make to their families and local communities. This year’s theme is ‘Give Me A Break’ focusing on the importance of rest and respite for young carers. 

A young carer is a child or young person who cares, unpaid, for a family member or friend who is mentally or physically ill, disabled, or misuses drugs or alcohol. Young carers have so much responsibility on their shoulders that they often have little time for themselves and are at serious risk of burnout. They need a break. We know that young carers are significantly more likely to report severe psychological distress then their peers without a caring role. They need time out from their caring responsibilities to rest, recharge and focus on themselves – be it for a hobby, or just spending time with friends, like other people their age. 

The ‘Give Me A Break’ theme speaks to young carers’ need for education professionals and employers to give them a break in life. This could be offering more support at school to young carers, recognising that their responsibilities at home can mean they often feel overwhelmed at having to juggle their caring responsibilities with their schoolwork. By trying to understand these pressures more fully, and helping young carers manage them, education professionals can give young carers the break they need to succeed at school and in further and higher education. 

To find out more and where you can get support visit https://frimley-healthiertogether.nhs.uk/health-for-young-people/growing/young-carer-supporting-loved-one