Are you a carer?

A young carer is someone under 18, or 18 and still at school, who helps care for a family member, friend or neighbour who cannot manage without support because of illness or disability.

Young carers often help with practical tasks, emotional support, or looking after others in the household. Caring can affect school, friendships and wellbeing, and young carers should not have to cope alone.

Your rights as a young carer

All young carers have the right to a Young Carer Statement under the Carers (Scotland) Act 2016. A Young Carer Statement helps you:

• talk about your caring role
• understand how caring affects your life
• plan support so you can meet your personal goals

The aim is to help young carers have a life alongside caring.

Support in South Lanarkshire

We have commissioned Action for Children to deliver the Young Carers Service in South Lanarkshire. They work with us to:

• raise awareness of young carers
• identify young carers early
• provide direct support tailored to each young person

This support is designed to help young carers feel understood, supported and included.

The Scottish Young Carers Festival takes place each year and gives young carers the chance to:

• take a break from caring
• meet other young carers
• take part in fun activities, in person and online

As part of the 2024 festival, young carers created short films sharing their experiences.

• Echoes of Care – explores the mental and emotional impact of caring, even when away from home
• Festival film – highlights why the Scottish Young Carers Festival matters