23/08/2025
Ten years ago, Golborne Lightshaw and Wigan Rotary embarked on a joint program to give Young Carers of the area the experience of a lifetime. Every year a group of young carers have been taken along to Scotsman’s Flash for a day on the water. Teams of young carers competed with each other Dragon Boat racing, Paddle boarding and kayaking, for all of them this was really out of their comfort zone and left them with memories for a lifetime.
Across the world, thousands of children and teenagers quietly take on a role that many adults would find overwhelming: they are young carers, who deal with many hidden struggles. These are children and young people who look after a parent, sibling, or relative who is living with illness, disability, mental health issues, or struggles with addiction. While their peers are free to focus on school, hobbies, and friendships, young carers balance these responsibilities with the heavy burden of caring at home.
The responsibilities of young carers vary depending on the needs of the person they support, but many take on tasks such as:
Practical care: cooking, cleaning, managing bills, or doing laundry.
Personal care: helping someone wash, dress, or move around.
Emotional support: providing comfort to a parent suffering from depression or anxiety.
Medical help: administering medication, attending hospital appointments, or keeping an eye on health symptoms.
Some young carers may look after younger siblings as well, especially if their parents are unable to cope.
Being a young carer can take a huge toll on a child’s own life, and many mis out on a childhood. Many miss school or struggle to complete homework because of their responsibilities at home. They may also experience isolation, unable to join friends for after-school clubs or social events.
Instead of carefree childhoods filled with play and exploration, young carers often face adult pressures far too early. The weight of worry—whether about a parent’s health, finances, or family stability—can leave lasting emotional scars.
Research shows that young carers are more likely to fall behind academically, experience mental health challenges such as anxiety or depression, and have fewer opportunities to plan for their future. Some feel invisible, as schools and services may not even realise the extent of their responsibilities.
At the same time, young carers often develop remarkable qualities: resilience, empathy, maturity, and responsibility. Many go on to work in health and social care professions, driven by their experiences.
At Golborne Lightshaw And Wigan Rotary members recognise the hidden work of young carers and give them a day to remember. Throughout the day many new friendships were formed, and there was an elation amongst the young carers from the shared experiences of the day. An early breakfast then the fun began, the joy of the day is truly what Rotary is about, a BBQ lunch with sausages, burgers, fresh fruit, and lots of liquid refreshment keep their energy levels at a peak.
Young carers play an extraordinary role, quietly holding families together. But in doing so, they often sacrifice parts of their own childhood. Recognising, supporting, and celebrating these young people is not just about fairness—it’s about ensuring they have the chance to grow, thrive, and dream, just like any other child.
Golborne Lightshaw and Wigan Rotary are strong together!
