A group of Young Carer Champions from Barnardo’s NI met with Health Minister Mike Nesbitt at Stormont this week, to discuss the legislation changes they want to see in Northern Ireland, so that young carers here have the same support and resources as their peers in England, Scotland and Wales.
Elsewhere in the UK, young carers are entitled to a statutory assessment, specific to their caring role, to ensure that no child or young person is providing care to a family member to the detriment of their own mental health and wellbeing. It puts the onus on the statutory agencies to provide support to both the young carer and the person they are caring for.
Maddie (18) is young carer supported by Barnardo’s NI, she said, “It was great to have the opportunity to speak with the Health Minister and share some of our personal experiences with him, about what it’s been like growing up with caring responsibilities.”
“The current legislation we have in Northern Ireland is totally inadequate and very out of date, it isn’t even specific to young carers. In England, Scotland and Wales they have dedicated laws set out to protect young carers and help to ensure that no child is providing care at a cost to their own health and wellbeing or development.”
“Our current rights are failing us. We just want our rights to be equal to the rest of the UK. We want equality.”
According to the 2021 Census there are 17,500 carers under the age of 25 in Northern Ireland, however Carers NI estimate that number is much closer to 30,000.
Jack (18) is a young carer who is supported by Barnardo’s NI, he said, “A young carer is a child or young person who looks after a family member they live with. We help the person we care for to meet their needs and often put their needs above our own, which can negatively impact our health, social life and education.”
“Every young carer’s role is different, we might do the washing, dishes, clean the house, cook, collect and manage medication, and care for siblings. I’ve cared for my mum since I was little, she has epilepsy. I have missed out on lots of things through the years like after school activities or going out with friends, simply because I don’t have enough time. When I did get the chance to go out, I felt guilty and anxious about not being at home in case my mum needed me.”
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt said, “I was delighted to meet the young carers and I commend the incredible dedication and resilience they demonstrate every day. Their commitment to supporting loved ones is inspiring, and it is important that they have their voices heard and their needs addressed. I understand that the lack of specific legislation for young carers in Northern Ireland is a concern. My Department will actively explore how we can strengthen support for young carers.
“There is still work to be done, but I want to be clear that the wellbeing of young carers is a priority for me and my Department.”
Michele Janes Barnardo’s NI Director said, “This incredible group of young carers are advocating for change for the thousands of young carers across Northern Ireland and we are extremely proud of them.”
“Many young carers aren’t identified as or don’t see themselves as carers, and so they slip through the net, missing out on getting the help and support they need. All children deserve a childhood and we need legislation in Northern Ireland that focuses on the children and young people who have caring responsibilities, to ensure they have a system of support wrapped around them.”
“If you're a young person who cares for others or you’re worried about a young carer, please get in touch with our Young Carers service on 028 79 631344.”