This blog was kindly written by guest writer and unpaid carer Rosario.
Being a young adult carer is incredibly challenging, including when it comes to managing personal and family finances. The responsibilities can feel overwhelming, particularly if a cared for is unable to work due to their condition, which adds stress to loved ones too.
It’s common for young adult carers to be involved in financial management for their families. However, understanding what financial support is available can be confusing. Carer Support Dorset offers valuable advice, which you can explore – https://www.carersupportdorset.co.uk/information-hub/money-and-benefits/. Additionally, Dorset Council also provides the option to request a Care Act assessment, which can determine eligibility for additional support, including financial assistance. You can request an assessment by clicking here – https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/w/carers-assessment.
Balancing work and caring duties, or even considering employment, can be another source of anxiety. It can help to be transparent with your employer about your situation, as they may be able to offer more flexibility and understanding. Your experience as a carer has provided you with transferable skills that are valuable in the workplace. If you need help explaining your situation to your employer, you can direct them to the Carers Trust’s Young Carers Futures page here – https://carers.org/young-carers-futures-hub/young-carers-futures.
If you are a student or planning to become one, financial worries might also extend to your studies or even choosing whether or not to pursue them. Researching which universities and colleges offer grants and bursaries for carers is a useful step. If you continue to provide care part-time while studying, you might also be eligible for carer’s allowance.
As a young adult carer, you might also handle your family’s finances. Leaving home to study can increase anxiety over whether your cared for can cope without you, but planning can help. Consider scheduling regular visits home to manage finances with your cared for, or explore ways to support them remotely, such as over the phone. If possible, find another trusted person who can help while you are away.
Improving your financial literacy can be incredibly helpful. There are many online resources available that can help you learn more about money management. Creating a personal budget plan, and perhaps helping your cared for and family create one, can make a significant difference in tracking income and expenses. Even small changes, like cancelling unused subscriptions, can help. Starting an emergency fund is another smart step to consider.
The stress of financial worries can take a toll on your mental health. Techniques like mindfulness or simply taking a walk can help alleviate some of that stress. It’s also important to treat yourself when possible, even with something small, to acknowledge the hard work you are doing. Life is about balance and you deserve it. This could be a bath bomb for a bath to help you relax or ingredients to make your favourite meal.
If financial stress is impacting your mental health, consider speaking with your GP. You can also sign up to Carer Support Dorset’s Here to Talk service, where you can have regular, conversations confidentially with a volunteer to share your worries. For more information, you can email admin@carersupportdorset.co.uk or call 0800 368 8349. Additionally, you can explore services specifically for young carers here https://www.carersupportdorset.co.uk/young-carers/.
