Today, Wednesday, March 12 is Young Carers Action Day. We cannot pass by this day without recognising our wonderful Tŷ Hafan siblings, writes Lynne Phelps, Tŷ Hafan’s Head of Family Wellbeing and Outreach Services.

This year’s theme is ‘Give me a break’, focusing on the importance of rest and respite for young carers.

Growing up with a brother or sister with a life-shortening condition can often make life seem very different to that of their peers, and siblings quickly learn new skills and abilities in supporting their family. Siblings often take on extra responsibilities and social trips are not as easy as that of their school friends. Worries and concerns are inevitable!

Siblings of children with life-shortening conditions are often not widely seen as young carers, so it is important to shine a light on their amazing bravery and support for their brother or sister.

Siblings often support their parents in many practical ways, support with feeding, gathering medications and when old enough even administering them. Helping to put the shopping away, sitting and supervising their sibling so mum and dad can cook or have a bath, simple tasks which means so much for their family to function.

Siblings even learn how their brother or sister communicates as often they are nonverbal and advocate their needs to others. They are emotional supports for their parents, often wanting to reassure them and make them smile...the list is endless.

At Tŷ Hafan our dedicated sibling service is designed to ensure that all siblings have the opportunity to ‘take a break’ and step away, whether it is at our peer support group Supersibs, or at an adolescent event, or even going on a scout camp residential!

One to one support can also be offered if more specialised support is required… we are always led by them!

No parent ever imagines that their child’s life will be short. Sadly, this is the reality facing thousands of families in Wales. We can’t stop seriously unwell children dying, but with the help of our wonderful supporters, we can walk alongside every family who needs us.

Simply put, our Tŷ Hafan siblings are amazing, and every day we are in awe of them, even when times are tough! Today is all about you!

With HRH The Princess of Wales as its patron, Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice provides free care and support to children with life-shortening conditions and their families, both within the hospice and in homes and communities in Wales. Tŷ Hafan offers a lifeline vital throughout a child’s life, as well as at the end of life – through bereavement and beyond.

At the heart of Tŷ Hafan is a commitment to providing holistic support, focusing on the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of the children in its care and their families. The organisation is also focused on fostering connections, creating a feeling of community that ensures children and families feel more supported through their shared experiences.

For resources to celebrate Young Carers Action Day, visit the carers.org website.