Potential indicators of a caring role
- Wellbeing and behaviour- anxious, easily irritable or frustrated, tired, withdrawn, low mood, isolated
- Avoids/becomes anxious about discussing home life or family, or about not being at home
- Asks that conversations about family remain secret, not to be discussed with parents
- Avoidance/lack of engagement from family with school or other agencies
- Avoids/unable to join in extra curricular activities
- Underachieving/struggling academically or with homework
- Persistent or unexplained absence or lateness
- Friendship difficulties
- Plus a family member with a health condition, disability or substance misuse issue (which could be less visible/hidden)
One or many of these indicators does not necessarily mean they are a young carer but a conversation with the parents/young person could be useful…