Dumbarton young carer makes voice heard in community to help others

Thirteen-year-old Elise Whyte has been an unpaid young carer for her mum who suffers from reactive arthritis and adrenal insufficiency, also known as Addison’s disease, for almost five years.

Her dad Stephen - who suffered a stroke in 2018 - works six days a week as a delivery driver, so she stepped in to help her family without even knowing she was a young carer.

Now she is hoping to raise awareness for young carers in Dumbarton and the Vale who may have been left unsupported.

Elise is a carer as well as pupil

She told the Reporter: “I just want people to understand that we have a voice. There are many children in the area who are put into these roles and sometimes feel like they are alone or have little to no support.

“If I was 18, doing what I do right now, I would be paid for it. This goes under the radar and sometimes I think that people suffer mentally because of it.

“I am so proud of what I do for my family and I wouldn’t change that, but at times I do wish I could go out like normal teenagers would.”

Elise’s mum Liz said: “She naturally took on the caring role because I was so unwell. She is truly incredible and never fails to impress me.

“She does everything except get herself out of bed in the morning, but which teenager doesn’t struggle with that?”

Elise is a young carer for her mum Liz

The 45-year-old continued: “She has been my rock during this time, and I will never be able to thank her enough. I do feel guilty that I have to ask her to do these things, but I have been so blessed to have a kind and talented girl.”

The Dumbarton Academy pupil has helped create an animation with the NHS and charity Carers Trust for medical professionals about what life as a young carer entails as well as spoke to the Scottish Parliament committee,

Elise with mum Liz and dad Stephen

Elise, who dreams of a career in musical theatre, said: “I was never taught how to do injections, but I learned to help my mum. Not a lot of people understand that this is my full-time job on top of school.

“It is more important than ever for people to support young carers. We are not dinosaurs; we do exist. I am determined to send this message out to ensure young carers are supported and heard.”