Children In Charge - Documentary on Irelands Young Carers.
This observational documentary reveals for the first time the reality of what life is like when a child takes on the role of caring for a parent.
Little is known about Ireland's Young Carers; they are invisible in the eyes of the state. Yet everyday throughout Ireland young people quietly care for sick or disabled relatives, bound by bonds of love and loyalty.
With exceptional access to four families, a new one-hour observational documentary, Children in Charge: Ireland's Young Carers , reveals for the first time the reality of what life is like when a child takes on the role of caring for a parent.
Made over the course of nine months, producer Ailbhe Maher (Bertie) and director Gerry Nelson (This is me, The Riordans) have crafted a revealing and thought-provoking film.
From Spanish Point to Trim, Children in Charge shows us that all over the country there are children taking on responsibilities beyond their years as they care for an ill family member. For the first time on television this documentary gives a voice to these young carers and asks who is looking out for these children? And why are they not supported?
We see 10-year-old Oisin caring for his mother, Ann-Marie who is battling the physically debilitating disease Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Oisin admits that, "Sometimes I feel a bit sad when Mam's crying in pain".
Fourteen-year-old Marita, who is caring for her mother Anne, tells us that "A bad day is when you get loads of homework, if Mom falls and you don't know what to do and then you get into trouble for not doing all the homework".
Children in Charge , observes the life of 19-year-old Shauna in Dublin who has been caring for her ill mother since she was just five years old. Though Shauna has cared for her mother for most of her life it was not until she was 18 and eligible for an adult carers allowance that she was recognised for the role she has taken on by the state.
And we meet 11-year-old Stephen who cares for his mother who is falling more regularly because of her MS.
Children in Charge: Ireland's Young Carers , sees raw and emotional accounts from mothers who find themselves in dilemmas as they ask their child to do chores and help them wash and dress.
The documentary goes into the homes of young carers and sees them in their everyday lives. It highlights the family bonds between children and parents and the worry that young carers carry with them always.
Such is the relentless nature of the situation, can young carers ever leave their ill parents or does an emotional family tie bind them? Can they have the same life/career opportunities as other children?
Children in Charge is a heartfelt film that highlights the existence and difficulties young carers face and asks if the State should recognise carers of all ages?
