Who cares?

Carers come from all walks of life and are of all ages. Many are family members and don’t even think of themselves as carers – they’re just ‘doing what has to be done.’

Becoming a carer is supposed to be voluntary – but many carers would argue that there aren’t usually any realistic alternatives.

But even if you feel that becoming a carer is your only option, the role is slowly starting to gain the recognition and status it deserves, thanks to hard campaigning from carers’ organisations.

Like millions of others, the person you’re caring for might be:

• your partner – which while it means you are more likely to be able to talk frankly and openly to each other, also means you are living the carer’s role round the clock
• your child – as well as the emotional stress of knowing your child has a painful, long-term illness like juvenile arthritis, you will need to help them grow up and make the transition into school, respect their increasing need for independence and resist the temptation to do everything for them – especially for teenagers
• your parent or other relative – who may be elderly and find it difficult to live and cope alone
• your neighbour or friend – who might depend on you more than their own family because you live close by or are easier to talk to

What if you’re a young carer?

Young carers are sometimes the most ‘invisible’ helpers, despite the fact that your parent might rely on you a lot for help washing, dressing, shopping, cooking and housework.

You may have a brother or sister with arthritis and find yourself helping out at meal times, bathtime and bedtime, or keeping an eye on them when your parents aren’t in the room.

It can feel really good to help, but if you feel worried or stressed out by it, you can talk about your feelings and get helpful advice about what to do.