Invisible Children: Young Carers of Parents with Mental Health Problems - The Perspectives of Professionals

This study explored professional views about the needs of young carers of adults with mental health problems. Sixty five participants were interviewed and included professionals from the health, social care and voluntary sectors. Respondents were asked to comment on their understanding of the needs of young carers and appropriate methods or interventions to address these needs. Findings include: young carers'perceived isolation, restricted opportunities and stigma; fears involving child protection and family separation; and examples of good professional practice upon which to build. Key Practitioner Message Young carers of parents with mental health problems are an invisible, hidden and vulnerable workforce. Young carers experience associative stigma; isolation; restrictions in education, leisure and employment; bullying; and fears about child protection and family separation. Social inclusion strategies and holistic interventions to support young carers include young carer groups, befriending by key workers and outreach staff and raising awareness of young carers, especially via information packages as well as the internet and DVDs in schools.