Caring Lives: What do young people who care for family members need to thrive? An empirical investigation

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The proposal offers an original approach to the study of young carers, proposing a mixed methods approach that complements qualitative research with a longitudinal study. The research will focus on the mental health of young carers and will conclude with consideration of potential interventions that will support positive caring. It is timely given the devolved Social Services and Well-Being Act which includes the requirement to better assess and support the needs of the group.To build on previous research and develop theory on the mechanisms underpinning young carers and mental health, in order to inform the practice required under the Social Services and Well-Being Act. Specific research questions are as follows: 1. Does longitudinal data support previous qualitative research on the mental well-being impacts of being a young carer? 2. How does the mental well-being of young carers compare with their peers? 3. What are the causal mechanisms underpinning caring and well-being? 4. What are the levers in policy and practice that can enable change and better support young carers? 5. What does an intervention for supporting positive care look like?