New survey identifies steep rise in caring hours for young carers
National research out today shows an alarming lack of support, coupled with a dramatic rise in time spent caring, is leaving thousands of young carers feeling ‘lonely’, ‘exhausted’, ‘worried’, ‘burned out’ and ‘stressed’.
Key findings from the Carers Trust survey, published today to mark Young Carers Action Day, show:
- More than half (53%) of young carers and young adult carers said the amount of time they spend caring per week had increased in the past year*
- At least a third of respondents said their caring role resulted in them either ‘always’ or ‘usually’ feeling ‘worried’ (36%), ‘lonely’ (33%) or ‘stressed’ (42%)*
- The pandemic continues to negatively impact the lives of young carers and young adult carers. 59% said they felt more stressed and 47% reported they felt less connected to others as a result of the pandemic*
Responding to the survey findings, Chief Executive of The Carers’ Centre, Jacqui Orchard, said:
“This latest research highlights the huge responsibility carried by young carers and demonstrates the urgent need for more support for young carers from all sides of the community. Over the past 2 years, the demand for our young carers services at The Carers' Centre has increased by a staggering 33%.
Young carers we support often speak of how vital it can be for them to feel recognised, heard and connected to others. Listening to their experiences, we have released a short video detailing 3 key tips that anyone can take to support young carers.
We would urge all members of the public to watch and share this video so that we can start to get young carers the support they deserve."
Becca, a young carer in Bath and North East Somerset, echoes the feelings of loneliness reported amongst young carers in the survey. Speaking about its impact, Becca said:
“Loneliness for a young carer is thinking you are the only one like you and none of your friends will understand. You feel like you’re trapped in a box.”
*Statistics from the national research by the Carers Trust. View the full report here: Young Carers Action Day 2022 – Taking Action on Isolation - News - Carers Trust