The Children Act 1989 and 2001 covers the well-being of all children and young people.
While being a carer is not in itself a bad thing it should be recognised that young people acting in a caring role within the family may also be 'children in need', as defined within the Children Act. This is especially so when their caring role holds back the experience and slows down the development of childhood. Children who are carers should have the same rights as all children, and therefore have plenty of appropriate support. The Act says:
• Their welfare is paramount
• They have a right to be consulted about what they want
• They have a right to childhood
• They have a right to protection from significant harm
Many adults who are cared for by young people are aware of the pressures their carer is under and this can often lead them into seeking support for their children. Unfortunately, many adults are not aware of the support available and much remains to be done to make such help more widely known, accepted and accessible.
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