We aim to ensure young carers have access to the support they need and know they are not alone.
As many as 1 in 5 children and young people are young carers in the UK. Some begin giving care from a very young age, and others become carers overnight. Many young carers don’t see themselves as carers and miss out on getting the help and support they need and deserve.
Are you a young carer?
As a young carer you might be supporting someone in your family who has a disability, long-term illness, mental health or substance misuse problem.
Young carers take on lots of responsibilities including:
- practical tasks such as cleaning, cooking, shopping and managing medicines or money
- physical care like helping someone out of bed or get dressed
- looking after brothers and sisters
- emotional support such as providing comfort and reassurance.
Without your help, the person you are caring for would struggle to cope.
If you are under 18 and providing care for a family member, relative or friend, it's important to know that support is available.
10,614
young carers supported over the last year
92%
positive feedback from young carers accessing the service
It was amazing being able to talk to people with similar backgrounds. It was a nice way to get out the house and I was really nervous at first, but laser tag was great!
Harry, young carer
What is the impact of being a young carer?
Caring for someone can be very lonely, worrying and stressful. Many young carers miss out on other opportunities that other children have to play, learn, have fun and make friendships.
Over a quarter of young carers aged 11-15 regularly miss school, which can mean they struggle with schoolwork or become isolated, and two thirds of young carers are worried about their future.
Being a young carer can also make young people feel good about themselves. As a young carer you’ll develop valuable skills such as empathy and resilience which will help you throughout your life.
How we support you
We support young carers to balance caring with leading healthier and happier lives.
Practical advice and emotional support
this might be 1:1 at home or in a group at school, helping young carers to feel better equipped for their caring role.
Assessing individual needs
working with young carers to understand their unique situation, needs and aspirations.
Outings, activities and trips
to make friends, build confidence and have fun!
Workshops and developing new skills
such as creative activities, managing money, first aid and managing your emotions.
School support
raising awareness with teachers and staff so they can better understand and support young carers.
And lots more!
Please contact us to find out about specific support and activities available in your local area. Our Greenwich service is based solely in schools.
Young Carer Festivals
Our annual Young Carer Festivals provide opportunities for young carers to have a break from their caring roles, build friendships, and simply enjoy being children.
Our young carers describe the festivals as adventurous, exciting, challenging and fun!
Activities and outings
200+
fun respite activities for young carers every year.
These experiences help reduce stress, boost confidence, and create lasting memories, offering a much-needed escape from daily responsibilities.
I just wanted to say thank you for all the support and help for my son through the years. He has found it so helpful, just knowing that he is not alone and there was someone there when he needed it.
Parent of young carer
Imago Young Carers Hub
The Hub offers information, advice and signposting for young carers, parents and professionals. Your first point of contact when you join the service, our friendly team in the Hub is available for you to call Monday–Friday 9am-5pm.
Are you aged 11-18 years, registered with one of our services and passionate about making a difference?
Join our youth shadow board and share your thoughts, ideas and feedback with us.
Does your workforce know how to support Young Carers?
Imago can provide professionals including GPs, schools, charities and businesses with free awareness training to help identify and support young carers and to understand the impact of being a young carer.
Young carer services funding partners
Our partners’ support and funding allows us to provide our vital work for young carers.
