Kids of 4 caring for sick parents
UK hospitals send patients home to be cared for by kids as young as four.
An investigation by Barnardo’s says doctors fail to pick up on cases where youngsters are sole carers.
Barnardo’s chief executive Javed Khan said: “All hospitals should ask who will support adult patients when they are discharged. Caring can take a huge toll on children’s wellbeing.”
There are estimated to be up to 700,000 young carers in the UK with an average age of 12.
Barnardo’s says a quarter work over 30 hours a week
Javed Khan cooking, cleaning, shopping and giving drugs to sick or disabled relatives.
Nearly 90 per cent said they looked after their mum and 45 per cent said they also cared for siblings.
The charity says cuts have driven an increase in the number of young carers because families struggle for outside help.