My name is Sanyu Musoke, I’m 24 years old and I have been a young carer since the age of 13. From 16yrs onwards I was entitled to the Carers Allowance Benefit, but from ages of 13-16, I was entitled to, and received nothing.

I’ve started this campaign because I believe that it should be mandatory for young carers under the age of 16 to receive a state awarded benefit- The Young Carers Allowance.

We know young carers often feel they are missing out on opportunities as they have to spend so much time and energy caring for family members who are disabled or chronically ill, or for adults who are misusing alcohol or drugs. Many young carers suffer from anxiety and exhaustion because of the pressure of taking on adult responsibilities. There are over 700,000 young carers across the country (Carers Trust) (Hampshire CAMHS).

Although young carers under the age of 16 are acknowledged in reports and findings- I have struggled to find data on that particular group.

Here are some of the responsibilities carried out by young carers;

• Practical tasks like cooking, housework and shopping.
• Physical tasks, like getting out of bed.
• Personal care, such as helping someone get washed or dressed and assembling wheelchairs and mobility aids.
• Administrating medicine and medical care.
• Taking care of brothers and sisters.
• Providing emotional support and encouragement, and so much more...

I believe that if society accepts young carers under the age of 16 are responsible enough to carry out the above tasks, then they are definitely able to manage their own Young Carers State benefit, awarded DIRECTLY to them, to spend how THEY choose.

Please Sign, Support and Share with your networks. Huge responsibilities weigh heavy on young carers shoulders, and they need your support now!

Find me on Twitter - @Sanyu_Musoke and @YUCANREACH

Also our young carer website www.yucan.org.uk