Grant: Project Grant

In Canada, there is roughly 1.5 million (19%) young people 30 years and younger reported to provide care to family members or other loved ones who are ill, have disabilities, and/or problems related to aging. Despite this, young carers are often not recognized, seen, or supported. Having caregiving responsibilities at a younger age has been shown to have negative effects on young carers' physical and mental health, as well as on their social relationships, school and work life, and their ability to earn money. The number of young carers and the burden put upon them are expected to increase given the rise in single parent and skipped generation families, as well as our aging population and overwhelmed healthcare system. The purpose of this 4-year national study is to gather evidence that will inform the co-design of policies and research priorities meant to enhance the health and well-being of young carers across Canada. Central to achieving the study's purpose are young carers co-designing the policy recommendations and research priorities by gathering evidence grounded in their experiences and providing them with a leadership role in the process. We will include diverse young carers and key stakeholders from across Canada. Young carers will take part in interviews and photovoice, which will involve them taking photographs to document their experiences. Young carers will also complete a survey. Stakeholders will be interviewed. Young carers will engage key stakeholders in a series of intentional discussions to move young carers' policy recommendations and research priorities into action. Short-term, this timely and innovative study will provide important evidence to inform policies and research priorities focused on advancing the health and well-being of young carers across Canada. Long-term, future work involves using the findings to advance next steps, including undertaking identified policy recommendations and research priorities for young carers.