An invisible population—Young carers in Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: This paper discusses the situation of young carers, a population of children, young people and young adults who have received little attention in Aotearoa New Zealand social policy, social work practice and research.METHOD: The authors draw attention to the status and needs of this group through a review of literature and through their reflections, as two English-registered social workers, on practice with young carers in the United Kingdom.FINDINGS AND IMPLICATIONS: The paper argues that young carers are a vulnerable, invisible group who require recognition and respect. Using a children’s rights framework,it is suggested that more attention should be given by social workers to understanding the complexity of this role, and the rights of young carers as children under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.