// BBC UK NEWS — CRONACA
How Children in Need is helping young people grow in confidence
Seventeen-year-old Rachel is a young carer for her brother Reuben
Seventeen-year-old Rachel has cared for her younger brother Reuben for seven years.
As her parents both work long hours for the NHS, Rachel regularly looks after her 13-year-old brother, who has autism and learning difficulties.
"These caring responsibilities usually happen at times like after school frequently, during the weekends and some school holidays," she said.
"The challenges that come with being a young carer as well are having to revise for A-levels and things like that," she said.
"It does involve striking a balance between caring and revising and studying.
"It can be really difficult to plan hangouts with my friends."
But four years ago, Rachel's mother Mili heard about the Cheshire Young Carers, which is supported by Children in Need.
The charity helps young carers aged six to 18 through activities and services.
This includes school holiday respite programmes, individual and group support and working closely with schools and colleges to provide specialised help.