Carers of the Year Awards recognise Ireland's growing army young carers

Ireland’s young carers are on the rise, reveals Helen O'Callaghan. In fact, the 2011 Census counted more than 5,000 are aged under 18.

The 2014 Health Behaviour in School-aged Children study found more than 11% of 10,368 children aged 10-17 surveyed identified themselves as family carers.

In tribute to this increase — and to mark the 10th anniversary of the Carers of the Year Awards — new awards have been announced.