Rests are 'essential' for young carers says Herefordshire support group
It's as more than half of young carers have said they can’t get a regular break from their caring duties
Last updated 12th Mar 2025
The director of a Herefordshire carers support group says she isn't shocked to hear young carers aren't getting regular breaks.
A survey released by the Carers Trust on Young Carers Action Day has shown more than half of young carers say they can’t get a regular break from caring, while just 15% said they could take a break whenever they wanted.
Two-fifths (40%) also said they worried too much about the person they care for to take time out from looking after them.
Director of Herefordshire Young and Young Adult Carers Susan Brace says it's important support is there for them and not having a rest can have a real impact on young people.
She said: "It's sadly not that shocking these figures, it's what I would expect because the vast majority of young carers are still not being identified, as they tend to fly under the radar because they often don't realise themselves that they're a young carer.
"There's all sorts of barriers to accessing the respite that's there as well, such as where someone lives, especially if it's rural.
"The point is, we need to support them so they're not taking on too much and that they are getting a break, having a break can allow them to meet people who are experiencing what they are and make friendships that last through their lifetime."
A Department for Education spokesperson said: “Through our Plan for Change, we want to break down barriers to opportunity for all children, including young carers, to make sure they have the support they need to achieve and thrive.
“Local authorities are required to identify young carers in need of support, and schools can use some of the £2.9 billion of pupil premium funding that we provide as extra help for young carers.
“Schools should take a ‘support first’ approach to working with families to address barriers to regular school attendance.”
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