An exploratory study of young carers and their families in New Zealand

The 2008 New Zealand Carers' Strategy recognises the role that "young carers" play in supporting family members who are ill or disabled, but we know little about this group of family carers in New Zealand. In this study, utilising grounded theory methods, interviews were undertaken with 14 young carers and nine other members of nine families to explore their experiences of young caring. Young caring occurs in the context of family relationships and expectations, involving both choice and obligation, and for some, a strong sense of responsibility. Young carers contribute in a wide variety of ways and they report a range of responses to this role and its effects on their lives. Appropriate formal support services can reduce the level of family caring required, including that by young carers. Greater awareness of young carers is needed, along with adequate and acceptable support services for families.