Young Carers MK works with and supports children and young people aged 8-19 years old who care for a family member because of a:

• physical or mental illness
• disability
• drug or alcohol related problem

The cared for person may be a parent or sibling, or another relative living in the same household. The child or young person does not necessarily have to be providing ‘hands on’ care to be recognised as a young carer. Even if there are services in place and other members of the family helping with the care, the emotional impact and restrictions due to illness or disability can still have an enormous effect on the young carer.