“My daughter became ill at a very young age, at a time when there was very scant help, understanding, or support for young people with mental health problems. We had to go to America to do research and join the Adolescent Bipolar group there. They gave us the information about a suitable psychiatrist back in the UK which on return we were able to visit through our GP.
“Our lives have been a rollercoaster of suicide attempts, self-harm and other illnesses. She nearly succeeded and was in intensive care for a long time. Our daughter is now 36 and is living with us.
“After about 20 years I have finally got a bit of Carer’s Allowance to help with her needs. As a result of her suicide attempts, she developed cancer during the Covid pandemic. She is in remission at the moment. Day to day living is often difficult. I have to spend a lot of my time counselling her and trying to keep her safe.
“I have never been able to fulfil my own needs and develop a career. We will be looking after her for the rest of our lives and hope we live long so we can be here for her."
"I want to see a future for carers where..."?
"they are seen as a vital part of our community and respected for the hard work they do."
All stories are shared by the unpaid carers and are in their own words.
Got a question about caring?
Every day we hear from people who need help with looking after a friend or family member
Become a member for free
Joining Carers UK is free and takes just a few minutes.