I'm under 18 and I look after someone
If you're a young carer, the council must assess what support you need, so that caring doesn't stop you being a child, going to school or seeing friends.
The interactive version is available in 6 languages and Easy Read.
Your rights
- A young carer's needs assessment from the council.
- Support so you're not doing too much, or caring in ways that aren't right for your age.
- Support with school. Many schools have a young carers lead.
- A transition assessment as you approach 18.
What to do next
- Tell a teacher, a school nurse or your GP that you're a carer.
- Ask your council's children's services for a young carer's assessment.
- Find a local young carers service through Carers Trust.
- You can call Childline on 0800 1111 any time.
Say this
“I look after someone at home. Can I have a young carer's assessment?”
The law behind it (England)
- Children and Families Act 2014s.96 young carers' needs assessments
- Care Act 2014s.63 transition assessments
Elsewhere in the UK
- Scotland
- In Scotland, young carers have the right to a Young Carer Statement under the Carers (Scotland) Act 2016.
- Wales
- In Wales, young carers have the right to an assessment under the Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014.
- Northern Ireland
- In Northern Ireland, ask your Health and Social Care Trust for a young carer's assessment.
Easy Read
What you need to know
- You are a young carer.
- You look after someone at home.
- The council must check what help you need.
- You should still have time for school, friends and fun.
What you can do
- Tell a teacher or school nurse.
- You can call Childline any time: 0800 1111.
Last reviewed: November 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. How we check our information.