Young Carers Face Significant Disadvantages, Government Plan Aims for Support
UKPulse News Desk
Young carers in England and Wales, estimated to be up to 1 million under 18, face academic and social challenges due to their responsibilities. The government published an action plan in July to provide improved support.
- Census data indicates approximately 130,000 carers under 18 in England and Wales, though the Carers Trust estimates the true figure could be as high as 1 million.
- Young carers are 25% less likely to achieve five GCSE passes including English and Maths, and twice as likely to be out of education, employment, or training for two years or more.
- In July, the government published an action plan for unpaid carers, including measures to support young carers through improved school help and joined-up support across the NHS, social care, and education.
Young carers in England and Wales face significant disadvantages, with an estimated 130,000 individuals under 18 officially recognised, though the Carers Trust suggests the true number could be as high as 1 million. These responsibilities can lead to academic and social challenges, with some young carers providing over 50 hours of support weekly.
Department for Education data indicates that young carers are 25% less likely to achieve five GCSE passes, including English and Maths, compared to their peers. This can result in them being twice as likely to be out of education, employment, or training for two years or more.
In July, the government published an action plan for unpaid carers, which includes measures specifically designed to support young carers. These measures aim to improve help within schools and foster joined-up support between the NHS, social care, and education services.
Andy McGowan, lead on young carers at the Carers Trust, noted that while young carers are entitled to local council assessments, many are not identified until after years of caring. He also highlighted that the support available is often inconsistent and that the high threshold for adult social care means the underlying caring burden is frequently not addressed.
Why this matters: The challenges faced by young carers can significantly impact their education, social development, and future prospects, highlighting a need for more effective support systems.
What this means for you: If you are a young carer, you are entitled to assessments from your local council to evaluate the impact of your caring responsibilities on your health, education, and wellbeing. The government's new action plan aims to improve support in schools and coordinate help across health, social care, and education.