Children as Carers

There was so much publicity last week given to children who care for disabled and/or mentally ill parents/siblings following an inquest after a young girl committed suicide. I felt shame and ashamed. I've moaned about how difficult it is being a carer. But to hear the same words from young people was upsetting. Young people should be able to look forward to life without feelings of guilt or worry. They should be exploring and adventuring into the wider world. They should be learning for the sake of learning. It was very sad to hear so many of them speaking just as I would. But with an age gap of over 40 years between us. If you want to hear or view the BBC News report follow this link:
http://search.bbc.co.uk/cgi-bin/search/results.pl?tab=av&q=children+as+carers&scope=all&uri=%2Fradio%2F

All I can say is if you are a young carer in a family; try and share it with as many people as possible. Explain some of the constraints and difficulties you have on your time. Do approach some of the Carers support web sites to see how you can get support when [and if] you need it. Talk to your doctor, teacher, neighbour or friends parents. Don't feel disloyal about sharing. Let your family know you are seeking support outside the family. It will benefit you all.

Some more sites to look at:
http://www.youngcarer.com/showPage.php?file=index.htm

http://www.carers.org/who-is-a-carer,118,GP.html

http://www.carers.org/

If Social Services are involved in assisting your family make sure that your needs and concerns are looked at as well. Every County should have some provision for helping children who are caring for a family member. It is your right to have some help. Unfortunately in this country help is not often offered you do sometimes have to ask for it. Demand help - it is your right.

Just remember, although you feel alone - whatever your age - there are a lot of us around and we all want to help each other.