Caring Before Their Time? Research and Policy Perspectives on Young Carers
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Author
Halpenny, Ann Marie
Gilligan, Robbie
Date
2004
Citation
Halpenny, A.M., & Gilligan, R. (2004). Caring Before Their Time? Research and Policy Perspectives on Young Carers. https://knowledge.barnardos.ie/handle/20.500.13085/205
Abstract
Caring for family members is highly valued in Irish society, yet much informal care—especially by children and young people—remains largely invisible in policy development. Informal care typically involves personal support provided by family or friends, including children under 18 who help care for relatives with illness or disabilities. Despite a strong tradition of informal care, the specific needs of young carers are rarely acknowledged in Irish policy or research. While recent government initiatives have increased financial support for adult carers, including respite grants and home assistance, young carers’ needs are still overlooked. Organisations like Multiple Sclerosis Ireland and the Disability Federation of Ireland (DFI) have highlighted the issue, noting that insufficient community support often forces children into caring roles. DFI has called for increased funding for community-based services to reduce this reliance on children. Historically, young carers were ignored by researchers and policymakers, partly due to children’s fears of family separation. Most research on young carers comes from the UK and Australia. This review, a collaboration between Barnardos and Trinity College Dublin, seeks to address the gap by focusing on the experiences and needs of young carers in Ireland, including those in lone-parent families.