Vast majority of young carers feel lonelier during summer holidays
Action for Children and Carers Trust are calling for better recognition of the work young carers do and proper funding for support services.
Young carers feel lonelier during the summer breaks, according to new research released by Action for Children and Carers Trust.
The survey revealed more than eight out of ten young carers across the UK feel lonely during the school holidays because of the increase in their caring responsibilities.
The vast majority (86%) feel more stressed or worried than during term-time, whilst more than a third (35%) of the young carers surveyed said they don’t look forward to the summer break.
Khloe Anita Patrick is a 13-year-old from Coventry, who is a carer for her little sister who has epilepsy, autism and ADHD.
She receives support from the Young Carers' Service, which is part of the Carers Trust Heart of England.
Khloe said: "I help my mum with keeping my sister distracted, so we can get jobs done. Depending on how well she sleeps through the night, if she gets up early then we’ve got to try keeping her sleeping in bed. And mainly I try to help out where I can."
She continued: "Sometimes I’m not able to go out with friends, because we might be having a bad day and having to look after her more. My little sister doesn’t like being away from me, which can be challenging. But it would be nice to go out more, spend time with friends, and make new friends.
"It would help young carers to have support sessions during the summer, just to say hello and have someone to talk to."
The survey further revealed over a quarter (26%) will spend over 10 hours on a typical day over summer caring for family members – the equivalent of losing half of their holidays.
There are an estimated one million young carers across the UK looking after a family member with a disability, illness or mental health problem - some as young as five years old.
Typically, young carers help with practical tasks around the home such as cooking, housework and shopping; physical care, such as helping someone out of bed; and personal care, such as helping someone dress.
The first ever parliamentary inquiry into how caring affects a young persons life chances has just been launched by the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Young Carers and Young Adult Carers, supported by Carers Trust.
Paul Carberry, chief executive at Action for Children, said: "The summer holidays should be a carefree time for children, but they can be heart-breaking for young carers who are often isolated and stuck at home, while their friends are having fun or enjoying time away.
"Young carers are proud to look after family members, but the work they do deserves proper recognition and support. Young carer respite services can be a lifeline, but the support currently available just isn’t enough to reach all of them in the right way. Only around 20 per cent of young carers in England receive support from their local council.
"The government must ensure councils have sufficient funding, so all young carers have access to these essential services. Only then will these children begin to have the practical and emotional support they need for a safe and happy childhood."
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