In 2001 there were an estimated 175,000 young carers in the UK, with around a third caring for a person with a mental illness. It is likely the actual number is higher and research has suggested that around a third of young carers are involved in inappropriate and excessive caring with consequent knock-on effects on schooling and other key areas of their lives.
Devon Young Carers has been established by four charities, TTVS, Young Devon, Westbank and Unite, to address the needs of young people providing care and support to other family members, primarily a parent or a sibling. Young carers are put in a position of great responsibility at a very young age; dealing with situations that many adults would find a challenge. These children and young people have to cope in difficult circumstances, often not only looking after their relative but also helping to bring up siblings and run a household.
