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Young carers
There are a surprisingly large number of carers under 18 in Australia – more than 180 000 and from these carers, 5 900 are primary carers. If you’re a young carer it’s important that you balance your own needs with those of the person you’re looking after.
Tips for looking after yourself
- Take time out, no matter how hard this may be – play a sport, hang out with friends or simply listen to music.
- Don’t drop out of school or give up your job. The Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA) has an interesting report on young carers. The Young Carers Respite and Information Services Program assists young carers to stay in education and the workforce. More information can be found at the Young Carers website.
- Try and share the responsibilities, perhaps with a brother, aunt, uncle or grandparent. You can also talk to your local Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre (more information) on 1800 052 222 during business hours or, for emergency respite support outside standard business hours, call 1800 059 059 for extra support.
- You may sometimes feel as if your friends don’t understand your situation. If so the Carers Australia in every state can help you get in touch with other young carers like yourself who know what’s going on and how to deal with it.
- Try and learn about your family member’s condition – it may help you understand their moods and behaviour as well as their medication requirements.
- Don’t forget that it’s normal to feel anger, frustration, guilt or worry. Talk to friends or other carers or family members. Make sure you share your feelings – even if it means talking to a counsellor.
Your rights as a carer
It’s worth knowing that carers have rights as well as responsibilities. Knowing these rights can help you balance your role as a carer with other aspects of your life.As a carer you have a right to:
- privacy and dignity
- be treated with respect
- be asked to help not expected to help
- be acknowledged and included in decision-making when it comes to support options
- choose which tasks you’re comfortable to do and which ones you’re not prepared to do
- ask other family members for support
- negotiate with your family member to use support services
- access these services when you need help
- provide relevant information to health professionals and service providers
- raise your concerns and offer your suggestions whenever relevant, and
- reduce the level of support you provide, or stop providing it altogether if this is necessary.
Talking through your rights
You may find it helpful to talk over your responsibilities and capabilities as well as your rights. If so, you can contact the Network of Carer Associations for information, support and advice on 1800 242 636.Common questions on this topic:
- How can I get in touch with other young people who are carers?
- Sometimes Mum is really low then a bit later she is quite happy, but I can't work out what causes the change.
See all common questions
