Are you a young carer?

A young carer is someone under 18 who helps to look after a family member or friend who has an illness, disability, mental health condition, or drug or alcohol problem. Some young carers look after someone every day; others help now and then, or for a short time. Many don't realise they are young carers at all.

You might be a young carer if you:

• cook, clean or do the shopping for your family
• help someone wash, dress, move around or take their medicine
• look after younger brothers or sisters
• keep someone company, listen to them or keep an eye on them when they are unwell
• go to appointments with someone or help manage bills and money
• translate or interpret for someone in your family

Caring for someone you love can be rewarding. It can also be tiring and make it harder to keep up with school, friends and time for yourself. You don't have to manage on your own.

How to tell us

Talk to any member of staff you trust, or contact our Young Carers Lead, Mr Freer, at a.freer@olsc.manchester.sch.uk . Parents and carers can also let us know by emailing welfare@olsc.manchester.sch.uk. We will talk with you privately and only share information with people who need to know, to help you.

Support in Manchester

Manchester supports young carers through a Young Carers Partnership of schools, youth services, health services and community groups. It does not run a single standalone service. With your family's agreement, we can help you get an assessment of your needs and connect you with local youth clubs and activities where young carers are welcomed. More information is on the Manchester City Council young carers page.

• Manchester City Council Contact Centre: 0161 234 5001, for advice and support for young carers.
• Carers Manchester Contact Point: 0161 543 8000, weekdays 10am to 4pm, for parents and adult carers.
• Manchester Carers Centre: support for young adult carers aged 16 to 25, useful as you move on from Our Lady's.
• Carers Trust: young carers: information and online support.

If you're worried about your own wellbeing, see our Health and Wellbeing page.