First the group looked at negative images of being a young carer, things which represented the challenges, difficulties and misconceptions. Here is what they came up with.
NEGATIVE IMAGES OF YOUNG CARERS
:: People are talking about things and they don't know what they are talking about
:: They call people names who have mental health problems and they don't know how much impact that has on me
:: Sometimes people just want to talk, not get involved in the health side
:: You are always juggling; socilalising, caring, commitments, school. There is no time.
:: Isolated. Sometimes thats just the way you feel. Everyone is enjoying themselves but something is going on and you have to go home.
:: Disability is a big issue. Sometimes disability is hidden. She's there physically but not as your mum.
:: Propping up the household and holding things together for the family.
:: Its hard enough being a young person anyway but sometime you can feel lost in the mist of pressure and time.
Once we had explored the negative aspects we moved onto look at the positive images around being a young carer. Here is what the group came up with:
POSITIVE IMAGES OF YOUNG CARERS
:: Being a young carer helps you grow and mature which will help me do things in the future
:: You can feel isolated like being on an island but groups and activities for young carers can make that island feel a bit bigger
:: We feel united as a group
:: Young Carers DO understand about disablity. They are experts and will challenge stereotypes.
:: Shopping and running a household is a real skill
:: Young carers have talents, skills, maturity and overcome challenges on a daily basis
:: Young Carers are nurturing and caring
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