Spotlight on Young Carers

At Total Children’s Therapy (TCT), we are always mindful of the wider family picture. While we keep each child or young person at the centre of our work, we also recognise that siblings and family members can sometimes take on additional responsibilities - particularly young carers.

What is a Young Carer?

The definition of a young carer can vary slightly, but according to the NSPCC:

"A young carer is someone under the age of 18 who takes on responsibilities that would usually be handled by an adult. This may involve caring for a parent, sibling or other family member who is unwell, disabled, or experiencing mental health difficulties."

What Might a Young Carer Do?

Every young carer’s experience is unique, but their responsibilities can include:

• Helping with household tasks such as washing and cleaning

• Supporting with medication or personal care

• Attending medical appointments

• Looking after younger siblings

• Providing emotional support to a parent or family member

• Managing aspects of their own self-care

These responsibilities can be significant, and often go unseen by others outside the family.

Every young carer’s experience is different, but all deserve recognition and support.

Why Awareness Matters

Young Carers Action Day (11th March 2026) is an important opportunity to raise awareness and improve understanding of the challenges young carers may face.

Many young carers show incredible resilience, empathy and maturity. However, balancing caring responsibilities alongside school, friendships and their own wellbeing can be challenging.

Supporting the Whole Family

At TCT we always try and be mindful of the bigger family picture and whilst keeping the child/young person at the centre of our work we also hold in mind siblings who may have extra responsibilities that their peers do not have.

We believe every child in the family deserves to feel supported, understood and able to thrive.

Local Support Services for Young Carers

We are delighted to have recently linked up with Leonardo Carer Support, a wonderful local charity offering advice, guidance and support to carers of all ages.

If your family includes a young carer, there are a number of helpful resources available:

• What support is there for Young Carers in Dorset? - Dorset Carers Card

• Dorset Young Carers Service – Dorset Council

• MYTIME Charity (supporting young carers across the UK)

• NSPCC – Supporting your child as a young carer

• NHS – Being a young carer: your rights

• Leonardo Carer Support

These organisations can provide practical support, information and opportunities for young carers to connect with others who understand their experiences.

You’re Not Alone

If you think your child may be a young carer, or you would like support for your family, please know that you are not alone. Reaching out can be the first step in ensuring that every member of your family feels supported and valued.

NB: All library photos posed by models. All photos and identities of unpaid carers have been changed in the interest of privacy. The above photo is © Carers Trust.