Black, Asian and minority ethnic children caring for sick or disabled family members are being let down by the agencies that are supposed to support them, says Barnardo’s.
Research by the charity shows how many children who are shouldering an extra burden as young carers by looking after their loved-ones continue to be unidentified and unsupported.
Barnardo’s says young carers from BAME communities face extra challenges and can be even more hidden than other children who care for family members.
This is despite some children and young people carrying out more than 30 hours a week of caring responsibilities – almost the equivalent of a full-time job – and filling in the gaps left in adult social care.
Barnardo’s research shows how schools, local authorities and health services are continuing to fail to identify young carers and refer them for support.
Barnardo’s vice president Baroness Floella Benjamin of Beckenham said: “Barnardo’s new report, Still Hidden, still ignored – who cares for young carers? shows how children who look after sick and disabled family members are still being let down by the agencies that are supposed to help them.
“Children from all communities often struggle unidentified and unsupported with their caring responsibilities but we know that this lack of support is even more acute for BAME young carers.
“They are more likely than other children to take on caring roles and may encounter language and cultural barriers that mean families do not seek support.
“Schools, local authorities and health services need to engage BAME communities to identify young carers and overcome these barriers so all young carers can be supported and children’s caring responsibilities can be reduced.”
According to the 2011 census, young carers are 1.5 times more likely to be from BAME communities and twice as likely to not have English as their first language.
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