Thirteen‑year‑old Wayne didn’t realise he was a young carer until a questionnaire at school made it clear that the responsibilities he handles every day aren’t typical for most children his age. Until then, he thought it was simply normal family life.
Wayne lives in a busy household with his mum, dad and three brothers and a sister. Both of his parents live with back injuries. Because of this, certain jobs at home are harder for them to manage, and Wayne naturally stepped into a helping role from around the age of ten.
As the oldest of the siblings, he helps look after his younger brothers, keeps an eye on them around the house, and does tasks like washing up, tidying and going to the shop when needed. Their home is fitted with safety gates to keep the little ones safe, and Wayne plays an important role in making sure everyone is okay. “Sometimes it can get annoying,” he admits, “but most of the time, I’m proud.”
Wayne describes young caring in a clear, thoughtful way: it doesn’t mean life is always hard, it just means that sometimes your own time is shortened because your family needs you. “Some days everyone’s fine, and some days they need more support,” he says. “It depends on the day.”
What matters most to Wayne is that people understand his life isn’t something to feel sorry about. He enjoys helping out, knows his parents appreciate him, and feels proud of the difference he makes. One of his favourite memories is overhearing his parents talking about him after their wedding. He’d left early to look after his younger brothers so the celebration wouldn’t be disrupted. Later, from his room, he heard them talking about how proud they were of him — a moment he still carries quietly.
Young carers groups offer Wayne a chance to step back, have fun and talk to people who truly get what caring is like. “It’s good to have my own time,” he says. Time to relax. Time to be himself.
Wayne’s message is simple: being a young carer isn’t always difficult. It’s about helping your family when they need you, and knowing that even small acts make a big difference.
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