A NEW campaign has launched in a bid to tackle digital poverty amongst some of the UK s most vulnerable young carers. Around 700,000 young people across the UK are providing full-time care to their adult relatives – many in complete isolation – as a result of the Coronavirus lockdown. One third of young carers come from low income families and many do not have access to vital technology they need for school work in the lockdown or the devices they need to help them fulfil their caring role in the future. As a result, the Who Cares campaign has been launched in a bid to raise funds and support, called the digi fund .
Extraordinary courage of the âhiddenâ young carers
Who Cares, a powerful, heartbreaking drama, tells the stories of young people forced to take on adult roles in their families
04 February, 2021 â By Lucy Popescu
ACCORDING to Carers Trust, there are around 700,000 young carers in the UK, aged 18 or under, who look after someone with a disability, mental illness or addiction. Some 70 per cent are âhiddenâ â they care for people behind closed doors, unknown to anyone outside their own home.
Matt Woodheadâs urgent verbatim drama,
Who Cares, tells the story of three young carers forced to adopt adult roles in their families. Based on over 100 hours of interviews, the play opened at the Lowry Theatre in 2016 and toured the UK, prompting many âhiddenâ young carers to come forward and receive support. Hopefully, Toby Swiftâs radio production will further its reach.