Young Carers' Information Needs on Wellbeing

While previous research has been able to identify the types of online information that young informal carers' (YIC) seek out, further research is needed to better understand their own health and wellbeing needs.  The burden of caring responsibilities can significantly impact on YICs mental health and wellbeing by increasing their risk of becoming NEET (not in education, employment or training) social isolation, mental-health difficulties, and lower quality of life than their non-YIC peers.  

These problems are exacerbated by a fear of being bullied or shamed, leading YICs to hide their caring duties and thus making it difficult for them to be identified, assessed and supported by appropriate service providers.  YICs preference for anonymity also makes it difficult for researchers to successfully identify them to study their needs, thereby assisting services providers to deliver the most appropriate support and advice.  

This research project aims to address this knowledge gap by the co-creation of a platform where YIC can anonymously seek out information to support their mental health needs.  The application will be co-designed with ACET and Carers UK to ensure the platform is fit for purpose and has a wide reach, making it easily accessible to YICs.   In addition, the platform will anonymously record YICs questions, allowing future researchers to investigate YICs mental health and wellbeing needs in ways which are not currently possible.

This research project is projected to start in February 2026.