Celebrating National Siblings Day
At Honeypot, we recognise the incredible efforts of young carers who support their siblings.
34% of the young carers we support care for a sibling, and 46% care for both a sibling and an adult family member.
We also see many siblings attending Respite Breaks together – in fact, 27% of Honeypot young carers are in sibling groups. It’s always wonderful to see the unique connection and relationship that siblings have.
The importance of siblings
Siblings can play a crucial role in a child's development. They are often our first friends and companions, providing a unique bond that can last a lifetime. Sibling relationships contribute significantly to emotional development, social skills, and cognitive growth.
Through interactions with siblings, children learn important life skills such as empathy, conflict resolution, and cooperation. These relationships help shape their understanding of social dynamics and emotional support.
However, being a young carer for siblings can be incredibly challenging, placing significant responsibilities on children from an early age. These duties often lead to isolation, impacting young carer’s wellbeing and education. At Honeypot, we offer respite from this, and provide a space for young carers to have fun, make friends, and simply be a child.
Meet some of Our Young Carers Who Care for Siblings
Mia is a dedicated young carer who helps her parents look after her two older brothers, who have Duchenne muscular dystrophy and ADHD. The boys require a lot of attention, making it challenging for Mia as most activities revolve around their needs. Honeypot provides Mia with a much-needed escape, allowing her to create wonderful memories that she will cherish forever.
““We could never go to the theme park with the boys. It’s something Mia has found she really enjoys, so it makes me so happy that Mia can do these things still thanks to Honeypot!”
Tali, a compassionate 12-year-old, cares for her younger brother Rico, who has craniosynostosis, autism, ADHD, and dyspraxia. From a young age, Tali faced emotional challenges as her parents frequently left for hospital appointments. She took on responsibilities beyond her years, helping Rico with his needs.
Since joining Honeypot in 2021, Tali has participated in multiple Respite Breaks, online workshops, memory-making days, and received pastoral support. Honeypot has provided her with a safe space to grow and be herself.
“I can be myself at Honeypot.
The best part was getting muddy in the stream, making new friends, and having the space to be just me!”
Brodie, 12, and twins Lochlan and Carter, 8, are the crucial extra pairs of hands for their parents when caring for their sister Quinn who has mental impairment, mobility issues and struggles with most tasks.
Brodie, Lochlan and Carter have joined numerous Honeypot Respite Breaks, and benefited from the wellbeing fund and our new healthy eating and nutrition service. Their Mum Ann believes the best thing about the Respite Breaks is the opportunity for the siblings to meet others in a similar situation. They felt at home straight away.
“This is the amazing thing about Honeypot, it’s a place where everything is about them. We couldn’t afford to go on a break so it’s a lifeline for us. They come back so happy and rejuvenated. I can see they have grown in independence!”
We are proud to support these young carers and to celebrate in the power and joy of being a sibling.
Read more inspiring stories from our young carers via the link below.