On Wednesday 11 March, Young Carers Action Day shines a spotlight on children and young people who regularly help someone in their family.
This year’s theme, “Fair Futures for Young Carers,” highlights the urgent need to ensure young people who support someone at home have the same opportunities to learn, grow and thrive as their peers — with the right recognition and support around them.
New Department for Education data, analysed by Carers Trust, reveals a stark attainment gap:
Just 45% of young carers leave secondary school with five GCSE passes including English and Maths.
Only 49% leave primary school meeting the expected standard in reading, writing and Maths.
Behind these statistics are young people like Crystal.
At just 17, Crystal has already spent six years supporting her mum, who lives with multiple complex health conditions including Addison’s disease, type 1 diabetes, epilepsy, autoimmune disorders and Crohn’s disease, and is now in the early stages of palliative care.
Alongside her caring role, Crystal studies animal care at college. But late-night hospital visits and the unpredictability of her mum’s health often mean missed classes. Like many young adult carers, her education, social life and confidence have been affected.
“I rarely go out or do anything social – I stay at home almost every day,” Crystal explains. “It’s difficult being away from home because of my anxiety and needing to make sure Mum is okay.”
Crystal first connected with Carers First when a team member recognised her caring role during a school open evening. After meeting with a Carer Support Adviser, she received a wellbeing payment and ongoing emotional support to help manage the pressure she was under.
“It’s okay to feel guilt, stress, anger or sadness – these are normal feelings when you’re under pressure,” Crystal says. “If it gets too much, no matter how big or small the problem is, ask for help. Don’t bottle it up.”
Her mum has seen the difference that support makes:
“Crystal’s happy she got to offload. She was confused about my palliative care, but having someone to talk to has really helped her process what’s happening. I’m so grateful she has this opportunity.”
Carers First is calling for:
Earlier identification in schools and colleges, so young people are recognised before they fall behind.
Stronger links between education, health and local services, making support visible and easy to access.
Sustained investment in early support, because prevention protects education, wellbeing and future opportunity.
Most young people who regularly help someone at home do not use the term “young carer”. Without early recognition, many struggle quietly.
Young Carers Action Day is about changing that — ensuring young people like Crystal are supported to care well without sacrificing their own futures. Because caring touches many families — and fair futures should too.
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.