Experiences of Children and Young People Caring for a Parent with a Mental Health Problem

Key messages

The total of 175,000 young carers identified in the 2001 UK Census is likely to be a substantial underestimate.
Over one third of young carers provide care for someone with a serious mental health problem who is their parent or holds a parental role.
Mothers are more likely to suffer mental health problems than fathers, and care for mothers is most often given by a female child.
The unpredictable nature of some mental health problems can create difficulties for young carers whose behaviours are not always correctly attributed.
The high level of stigma attached to mental health problems may lead young carers to exclude themselves from social involvement.
The needs of young carers could often be better met by validating their input, concerns and skills.
The education system can play a major role by recognising the impact of the caring role on children and young people’s experience of education, and making appropriate onward referrals.