With self-isolation becoming a necessity for many of us, especially those with pre-existing health issues, the world is changing for many on a daily basis.

Unpaid Carers are often forgotten by wider society at times like these. They are unsung heroes caring for the people on their front line. It is hard for anyone, at any stage of their life, but for a young carer these times can be particularly hard.

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I wrote 'The Carers Companion: A Daily Sidekick for Young Carers" a few years ago, when I was still living at home in a caring role myself. Having been a young carer since the age of 8, I spent a lot of time isolated at home caring for my Mum. And now with support services unable to make face-to-face contact and many young carers isolated like I was, I hope my book can provide some digital support to those who need it most. It is aimed at children aged 5-13, and does lean more on the younger side, but the main points still stand at any age... don't neglect your own physical and mental wellbeing! It is very easy as a carer to forget about yourself, but especially at times like these, we need to be caring for ourselves too.

Whilst the book will work a lot better if you are able to print it (many sections are intended to be interactive, such as the diary notes section and various fill-in-the-blanks) I hope that the digital version provides at least some support and the knowledge to young carers all around the country and beyond, that you are not alone! <3
And in the near future hopefully many more physical copies can be distributed to those who want one! To date, it has reached almost 3000 young carers across the UK :)

Feel free to download and share. This is a free resource! :)

And don't forget to spot Sammy - he's hiding on every page!

It goes without saying but please ignore the sections that suggest meeting with friends or anything else that doesn't conform to social distancing/isolation. This book was written quite a few years ago, so some of the suggestions unfortunately can't be done right now. Stay home where you can, and stay safe! <3