Lyons Davidson’s Catastrophic Injury Service is supporting Young Carers Awareness Day today, 26 January 2017.
It is reported that there are 700,000 young carers in the UK. Some of these young carers are looking after a disabled parent or sibling who has a disability as a result of an accident. Providing care to their loved one often includes practical day to day household chores, shopping, collecting medication and looking after siblings.
A young carer might also be helping a loved one communicate and providing emotional support or personal care by helping with dressing. Caring responsibilities can impact on all every of a young carer’s daily life- in particular, their education.
Lyons Davidson’s Catastrophic Injury service is mindful of the selfless care provided by all carers and as part of any compensation claim will consider the early and ongoing needs and support for carers, as well as seeking compensation.
The Carers Trust wants Young Carers Awareness Day (YCAD) to raise awareness of how difficult it can be for young people with this huge responsibility in their lives. They also ask for help and support to young carers to realise their ambitions and career aspirations. A recent survey conducted by the charity found that young carers find it difficult to follow a fulfilling education and are at risk of not achieving their ambitions because of their roles as carers.
You can find out more information by visiting the Carers Trust website or searching the hashtag #YoungCarersAwarenessDay on social media.
For more information on any of the issues raised in this article, please contact Laura Merry, Principal Associate in the Head Injury team by emailing [email protected] or calling 0117 904 5718.
