A carer is anyone who cares, unpaid, for a friend or family member who due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction cannot cope without their support.   Some carers are disabled too.  

 

In most circumstances a child that was born affected by a teratogenic substance, whether it be a medicine, alcohol, or  diabetes etc, is likely to  have a mother that has a disability of some kind, and therefore may need to provide her with care.  This core understanding is rarely, actively put into place for these families.   It can be easy to overlook this key element in their care, as often a disabled young carer will be already accessing support.   However recognition that a young disabled person is a carer can ensure that there are things that are put into place that they may not otherwise receive. 

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Recognition can ensure support at school, respite, help at home, and create opportunities to have a social life.  Recognition can not only help to improve the wellbeing of the young carer, but for the family unit also.  

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All carers are entitled to an assessment, what ever their age, or ability.  The council will send someone to talk to the carer in order to understand what their life is like, and what support might be available for them.   This is an opportunity to share their experiences to make sure you get the right support that you need.  

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