Are you a carer?
The Department recognizes the following definition of carers.
Carers are people who look after their family members or friends who need care, help or support. Carers can be adults caring for other adults, parents caring for ill or disabled children under the age of 18, or young carers under the age of 18 who care for another family member.
Carers can belong to any age group, culture or religion, and their background can vary widely. There is not a typical carer. Some carers do not see themselves as carers, but see themselves primarily as a parent, child, wife or husband, partner, friend or neighbour.
Some carers live in the same house as the person for whom they care. Others live nearby and visit regularly. Some live a distance away and visit weekly or monthly. Caring often impacts on the whole family.
Young carers
A young carer is a child or young person under 18 years old who helps to look after someone at home.
