On Young Carers Action Day, Scotland must see the often unseen

Around us, quietly moving through their day, are young carers, children, and teenagers whose mornings might have begun much earlier than for many of us. In the quiet of their homes, they may have been assisting a parent with a physical disability, preparing breakfast, or offering strength to a parent grappling with mental health challenges.

These young souls find themselves in a world where roles are reversed, their responsibilities sometimes vast and largely unseen by the world outside their doorstep.

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Each of these young carers has a story of resilience. Can you imagine the young boy who, before he thinks of schoolwork or playground games, ensures his sibling’s medical needs are met? Or the young girl who, instead of scrolling through social media like her peers, checks in on her mother’s wellbeing, providing comfort and encouragement with a maturity beyond her years. These are not just acts of duty, but profound expressions of love and commitment, performed in the backdrop of their youth.

Thinking about their stories, we’re reminded of the depth of their sacrifice and the weight of their love. Within our communities, behind closed doors, are young hearts full of devotion, often shouldering burdens that would weigh heavily on many adults.

These young carers undertake the monumental task of caring for family members with disabilities, illnesses, or other needs. As we approach Young Carers Action Day tomorrow, I was moved to write not just in celebration of these remarkable young individuals, but to advocate for the support, admiration and recognition they so rightfully deserve.

I recently had a conversation with a pupil from a local school. They reached out to discuss the lack of resources for young carers in our area. Her initiative and determination to advocate for other young carers were nothing short of inspiring. I sat in my office chatting with her for around an hour.

It’s conversations like these that highlight not only the challenges faced by young carers but also their incredible capacity to seek solutions and support for themselves and others.

I am not sure if I would have known as a young teenager how to approach my elected representative, let alone meet and discuss the needs of a community and talk so eloquently on their behalf.

I hear so much bad press about our young people and find myself frustrated at a narrative that condescends. If we just push back the curtain, we can see that many of our young people are striving to get through this life just as much as the next person, against the backdrop of a mental health crisis.

Growing up, I never labelled myself a carer, serving as an interpreter for my Deaf father but the role opened my eyes to the silent army of young people supporting their family members in ways that go unnoticed. Many of the young friends I would meet at the Deaf Club were supporting Deaf parents and many have gone on to become professional interpreters.

Caring is not always about physical tasks, it encompasses emotional support, managing households and, often, sacrificing one’s own needs for the sake of loved ones. Young carers often shoulder responsibilities that can significantly impact their mental health, education, and social lives.

But often, they don’t see themselves as carers, the label we extend to them – they see it as just what needs to be done in their family.

The theme of this year’s Young Carers Action Day, Fair Futures for Young Carers, speaks volumes about the need to ensure caring responsibilities do not become barriers to learning, earning, or simply being able to move forward in life. Our young carers are fighting a battle on two fronts – managing their caregiving duties and navigating the challenges of growing up.

Educational environments play a crucial role in supporting young carers. Schools and colleges need to be places of understanding and flexibility, where young carers feel seen and their unique challenges are acknowledged. It’s about more than just policy, it’s about creating a culture of empathy and support within our educational institutions. Young carers have spoken out about the need for this, highlighting how crucial it is for their wellbeing and academic success.

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I wrote a members’ business motion in the Scottish Parliament to celebrate Young Carers Action Day. The motion is a call to action, not just for recognition but for tangible support for young carers across Scotland. It’s a testament to their positive role in society and the invaluable care they provide.

I want to extend my deepest gratitude and admiration to all young carers across Scotland. Your selflessness, resilience, and dedication do not go unnoticed.

As we strive for a society that fully supports and validates your role, let us also work towards creating an environment where your futures are not defined by your caregiving responsibilities, but enriched by them.

On this Young Carers Action Day, let us all reflect on how we can contribute to ensuring fair futures for these remarkable young individuals. Their stories are not just tales of responsibility and care, they are narratives of love.

Together, let’s support our young carers, not just in word but in deed, for in their wellbeing lies the wellbeing of our society.