Concern for young carers

There are worries about the long term future of support for young carers because of changes in the way the funding is distributed.

Twelve-year-old Sophie wants to be a chef in the army when she grows up. She has the same ambitions as any other girl her age but with one difference. She is one of the UK'S army of young carers.

The 2001 census estimates that in England and Wales there are 175,000 children caring for family members although the real figure is probably much higher.

Helping mum cope

Sophie has a 10-year-old sister called Carly. She has learning disabilities meaning Sophie helps look after her.

She reads with her, sings to her and helps with her homework.

Carly is great fun to be with, says Sophie, but when she is in one of her moods she slams doors, throws things out of the window and breaks her toys.

Sophie also helps her mum out around the house. She cooks for the family - her favourite recipes are paella and lasagne.

She says her mum is "very pleased to have me because if I was any different she wouldn't be able to cope".

Each week Sophie goes to a group called Furness Young Carers. It is a chance for her to meet other children in the same situation.

In February 2008 they went to Blackpool for a special half term treat. Trips like this are a lifeline for Sophie as they give her a well earned break.

Future of Young Carers projects threatened?

But what will happen to young carers in the future?

The National Carers' Strategy is due to be published in spring 2008 and the Princess Trust says it is encouraged by the interim report which devotes a whole section to young carers.

However the Princess Trust is worried about the long term future of young carers projects.

At the moment they are funded by two government grants - the Carers Grant and the Children's Fund.

But in the next financial year (2008/2009) both these grants will be given directly to local authorities as part of a new more general grant with no conditions about how it is spent and hence no guarantees that carers will get anything.

In the meantime Sophie will continue helping her mum look after Carly and going to Furness Young Carers which continues to provide a lifeline.

Rob texted to say he felt "humbled by the young carers piece."

One text says "Carers old and young should be treated properly".

Another says "I have been a carer for 36 years now - as I am reaching 60 my carer's allowance is being stopped - disgusting."

Barbara on Merseyside texted to say "As a member of my local rotary club I am heading an initiative to support our local young carers."

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