Research into experiences of young carers and young adult carers during COVID-19

29th September 21

UCL research on carers experiences in COVID-19Researchers at University College London would like to speak to different groups of people including young carers aged 13-17 years old and young adult carers (aged 18-24) about their experiences during COVID-19.

Young carers aged 13-17

They are really interested in how different groups of people including young carers aged 13-17 years old are feeling, and what you are thinking about ‘social distancing’ and having to stay at home during Covid-19. They would like to invite you to speak to a researcher about your experiences if you:

  • are aged 13-17 years old
  • provide unpaid care, help, or support to a family member or friend with care needs (e.g. mental or physical health problems, frailty, disability). This might include providing personal care, emotional support, practical support with everyday tasks, managing appointments, dealing with medications or supporting them to look after other members of your family.

What will happen if you take part?

  • You will be able to ask the researcher questions about the study before you decide to take part.
  • If you would like to talk to them, they will ask you some questions via a telephone or video call about your experiences and opinions.
  • If you are 13-15 years old, an adult who is responsible for you will have to give their permission for you to take part, but it is completely up to you whether you do.
  • The questions should last for around 45 minutes
  • The information you give them will be kept private and they will not use your name when they write about it.

Young adult carers aged 18-24

They would like to speak to young adult carers (aged 18-24) who have been providing unpaid care, help or support to a relative, partner or friend with care needs during the pandemic. They would like to understand your experiences of the pandemic, social distancing and social isolation, including any impacts on mental health, well-being and daily life. They would like to speak with you if you:

  • are aged 18-24 years old
  • provide unpaid care, help, or support to a family member, partner or friend with care needs (e.g. mental or physical health problems, frailty, disability). This might include providing personal care, emotional support, practical support with everyday tasks, managing appointments or dealing with medications or supporting them to look after other members of your family.

What will happen if you take part?

  • You will have the opportunity to discuss the study with a trained researcher and ask questions.
  • You will be asked to take part in an interview with a researcher over the telephone, or via a video
  • call depending on your preferences. The interview should last around 45 minutes.
  • The information you give them will be anonymised and kept confidential.
  • They will offer you a £10 online gift voucher to thank you for taking part.

To find out more

If you are interested in hearing more, please contact:

Tom May University College London

Email: [email protected]

Tel: 07724 833396

 

UCL Ethics Committee Approval ID 14895/005