HUNDREDS of young people locally have sacrificed their childhood without question to devote their lives to caring for their loved ones.

It is estimated that a staggering 350 children in Poole alone, including some as young as five, are the main carers of a sick or disabled parent or sibling.

Life for young carers is tough with the added pressure of school and often a lack of understanding from classmates.

Now at the start of National Carers Week, the Daily Echo hopes to rise awareness about the struggles of the unsung heroes, who have dedicated their lives to the wellbeing of others.

Stephanie Roy, the Borough of Poole's principal manager for children and young people's social care, said: "Young carers face serious caring responsibilities. Some older young carers help their parent with practical tasks, others are affected in different ways.

"They are all deserving of our admiration and support as they do a fantastic job."

Ray Smith, honorary carers champion for the Borough of Poole, told the inspirational story of a 12-year-girl who has been caring for her schizophrenic mother, alcoholic father and her brother who suffers from leukaemia, since she was five. But he insisted the little girl's incredible story was not an isolated incident.

"A lot of people just have no idea about what these kids do," he said. "I think it's unbelievable. They are completely dedicated and utterly unselfish.

"One boy, who looks after his mother, who lost her legs, by himself, was asked how he manages, and he just said I love my mum.'"

The Poole and Bournemouth Young Carers Service, which is in touch with 208 children in Poole, is run by Barnardos on behalf of Poole and Bournemouth Borough Councils.

The service works with children from as young as five, although the vast majority are over eight years old. Each child is assessed to make sure they and their parents receive the help and support they need.

Parental illness and disability affects different children in different ways and the young carers service gives them a chance to talk about anything that is worrying them with a trusted adult or simply have fun with other young carers.

They receive support in a range of ways, from school groups and activity evenings to holiday trips, including a young carers' festival.

If anyone would like to make a donation to the Ray Smith Carers Account Borough of Poole, which raises cash for events and trips for young carers, they should send a cheque made out to the account to Poole Civic Centre.