Every carer's situation is unique but there are lots of common themes, things that many experience because of their caring role. Some of the carers we've supported have kindly shared their story with us...
Rose talks about her experience looking after her son, now in his 30s, who has learning difficulties and autism. She describes the challenges of the role, including her concerns as she and her husband grow older, about her son's future.
Lauren has really struggled to find a balance between caring and studying. Reaching out for help and finding someone she could trust has helped her to turn her situation around and she's doing so well now!
Charlotte lives in Guildford and looks after her mum and brother. As she moved into adulthood she knew she needed her own space to improve family relationships and keep her caring role on track.
Oscar, now in his 20s, has cared for his mum for as long as he can remember. Creativity through gaming is a huge part of his life. Surrey Young Carers (part of Action for Carers) have supported him to help him achieve his goals.
Sriya looks after her elderly grandparents. She found it hard to manage all the extra responsibilities, but is doing well, and says that being a carer is very much part of who she is.
Reem cares for her son, who has autism and now lives in supported living. She finds creativity and positivity helpful as a carer.
Rhianna has looked after her mum from a very young age. Although she found some aspects of school tough, she believes being a carer can be a positive thing.
Theo is 10 and helps look after his sister who has bipolar disorder.
Elle is 13 and helps look after her younger brother who has autism.
Kate is a parent carer to her son William who has frontal lobe epilepsy and experiences up to 30 seizures over every 24 hour period.
Josh is 20 and lives in Guildford with his mum and younger brother. He looks after his mum who has had several bouts of cancer including cancer of the bones.
Julie-Anne is 12 and helps care for her older sister who has epilepsy.
