Young carers

We all get ill sometimes and might need a bit of looking after, but usually this is just for a few days. Sometimes people get very seriously ill and they may need a long time to get better, or might not get better at all.  People with illnesses such as cancer or multiple sclerosis need extra care as they may be weak and unable to look after themselves properly. If a member of your family has had an accident, they might need some help while they recover. Even breaking a leg can stop someone doing things that they normally would do. Accidental injuries might take a few weeks to heal up, or they could leave someone permanently disabled.

You may find it helpful to contact the MND Association, which supports people living with motor neurone disease (MND) and their families. This includes support for you as a young carer and you can download information from their website. If you wish, they can send information to someone else, like a relative or a teacher, to help you talk more easily about any concerns. You can contact their helpline, MND Connect, for a private chat by telephone or email. They can just listen if you need to talk about the way the disease is affecting you and your family. They can also provide information or give you contacts for other services that can help.

You can ring them on 08457 626262 or email them at: youngconnect@mndassociation.org or visit their website.

Caring from someone might involve things day to day like cooking, cleaning and other housework. You might have to help your family member get washed and dressed, help them move about or use the toilet.xn-- it can mean making sure they take their medication if they need to, and providing emotional support-mwc.xn-- you might also have to look after younger brothers and sisters if your parent is unable to-eoc.

This can take up a lot of time and may mean that you miss out on spending time with your friends and having fun.xn--your education might also suffer and you may struggle at school-sxb. Looking after someone can be hard work and tiring.xn-- you shouldnt have to care for someone on your own and you can get help-up98b.

Some adults use alcohol and become addicted to them. If someone is dependent on alcohol or on drugs, they may be unable to care for themselves, or anyone else. Young people often feel responsible, or made to feel responsible for a family member who is in this situation.