Young Carers

Young carers are children and young people aged 18 and under, who provide or intend to provide care for another individual. The care required may be due to a disability, long-term illness, mental ill-health or drug or alcohol dependency. It also includes support to siblings if the parent is not able to do the parenting role without assistance.

Caring can take many forms and include physical. practical and emotional support; such as cooking, cleaning, giving medicine, assistance with dressing and washing, paying bills or keeping the cared-for company.

Caring for a family member can be very rewarding, but also hard work. Young carers often have to look after themselves too and can find it difficult to keep up with schoolwork, go out with friends and stay healthy.

The Carers (Scotland) Act 2016 was implemented in April 2018, to ensure adult and young carers are supported to manage their caring responsibilities with confidence and in good health, and to have a life of their own outside of caring. Our Local Young Carer Strategy details how Aberdeenshire Council intend to support young carers.

Quarriers Aberdeenshire are commissioned by Aberdeenshire Council to provide a Young Carer Support Service. Quarriers offer advice, information and support, which can include support to complete a Young Carer Statement.