Carers First is dedicated to supporting young carers in our communities. Recently, we proudly signed the Young Carers Covenant, affirming our commitment to improve the lives of young carers across the UK.
Did you know that there are approximately one million young carers aged 17 or under, with an additional 600,000 young adult carers between the ages of 18 and 25? Young carers often undertake significant caring responsibilities which can profoundly affect their mental health, overall well-being, and educational opportunities.
Shockingly, around 50,000 young carers dedicate up to 50 hours a week to their caring duties. Many of them express feelings of missing out on vital aspects of childhood and education, while others report feeling overwhelmed by their responsibilities. We believe that ensuring a fair and supportive future for young carers is crucial.
What is the Young Carers Covenant?
The Young Carers Covenant represents a nationwide commitment to support both young carers and young adult carers. It outlines ten key outcomes identified by young carers themselves as crucial to improving their lives.
Any organisation or individual who can help bring about these outcomes is encouraged to sign the Covenant. This includes national governments, local authorities, schools, colleges, and parliamentarians across the UK.
The Covenant was developed by Carers Trust in collaboration with members of the Young Carers Alliance and was officially launched on Young Carers Action Day 2024.
Sign Up to the Young Carers Covenant
Signing the Young Carers Covenant serves as a guiding promise that we will work to create an environment where young carers can thrive both personally and academically. Please visit the Carers Trust website to find out more about the Covenant and sign it.
Online Help and Advice
Visit our online support section where we have provided advice and guidance on a range of relevant topics to help you in your caring role.