What is a young carer?
A young carer is someone under 18 who cares for a friend or family member who cannot cope without their support.
A young carer might help with:
- practical tasks like cooking, housework and shopping
- physical care, such as helping someone out of bed
- emotional support, including talking to someone who is distressed
- personal care, such as helping someone dress
- managing the family budget
- collecting prescriptions and helping to give medicine
- helping someone communicate, such as using sign language or interpreting
- looking after brothers and sisters.
It is estimated that up to 1 in 5 children are a young carer - that is 6 children in every class.
Think your child might be a young carer?
If you think your child may be a young carer, this might feel overwhelming and you might be worried about seeking support.
Seeking support for your child isn't about judging your parenting or your situation. It's about understanding what practical, emotional or financial support your child may need as a young carer. The first step is to Complete the Day in the Life form. You can also:
Contact: 01992 658469
Monday–Thursday: 9am–5.30pm
Friday: 9am–4.30pm
If you need urgent help outside these times, call 0300 123 4043.
Or email youngcarers@hertfordshire.gov.uk if it’s not urgent.
For further information about all the support and benefits registering your child as a young carer can bring, please take a look on our dedicated page on our website here.
Also, take a look at this short video to help you decide.
From this month, Hertfordshire County Council has brought support for young carers in-house. They will also be contacting all current registered young carers directly to welcome them, provide updated contact information, details on how to access support, and a link to the new webpage.