Young carers 'hiding in plain sight' - charity

Many children do not realise they are carers because what they are doing has become normal for them, according to a charity.

"Young carers are everywhere," said Cathy Wood from My Time for Young Carers. "Often they're hidden in plain sight."

Wood - whose organisation is supported by BBC Children in Need - says one of the "biggest myths" is that young carers are "constantly doing physical chores".

Sometimes it can just be the emotional impact of worrying about a terminally ill parent or living more in step with a neurodivergent sibling, she says.

"It's nobody's fault.

"It's just accepting the fact that [if]... somebody may have poor health or mental health - whatever those things are - there is some kind of impact for that child."

Wood is urging anyone who may know a young carer - whether that is a teacher, neighbour, family member or friend - to be aware of the signs and have "those conversations".

She says that while young carers are "resilient, caring and capable", they also deserve time to be children.

Wood says My Time for Young Carers delivers clubs and holiday activities for about 90 young careers in Surrey - aged between seven and 16.

"They deserve opportunities to relax, make friends, try new things and not have to worry for a little while.

"That's exactly what we're trying to provide."

One young carer whom the charity has supported is 10-year-old Cameron, whose younger brother has additional needs.

"Though I won't change him for the world, it can still put demands on me," Cameron said.

"I help look after him when he's angry and to cheer him up I... pull funny faces and try and tickle him."

Cameron, from Leatherhead, is set to represent the South East in this year's BBC Children in Need Choir, performing as part of the Appeal Night celebrations.

Wood says she is "absolutely delighted" for Cameron.

"I'm proud of all our young carers because they do a wonderful thing."

Wood adds My Time 's main aim is to make "young carers realise they're not alone".

"We hope that they will get strength from one another and it will have a positive impact on their mental health.

"If we've done that, we're really, really happy."

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