Young carer turns author to share his experiences

A WARRINGTON man who lost his father when he was 12 and had a mother who had chronic mental health problems has created a website for young carers – children who provide care.
Michael Raynor has also written a book “Guidebookj for Young Carers” which can be read, free of charge, on the website www.youngcarer.info
After his father’s death, from suicide, Michael received no support family or medical or social work professionals.
He said: “I had to provide considerable support throughout the remainder of my childhood and I had some very difficult experiences. Despite the
challenges of my situation, I studied at university, served as an army officer (including several tours in Northern Ireland), and then served as a Ceasefire Monitor in Sudan and Georgia for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.
“I then returned back to the UK, worked in several roles and then started my own business five years ago. I am now married with a young daughter.”
Michael decided to write the book several years ago to help young carers and excie and inspire them about their future.
He said: “Being a young carer can be a very demanding and isolating experience so I hope that present day young carers will find my story very encouraging.
“I wanted the book to be available for anyone who could not afford to buy a copy, so I created a website which contains the book as readable blogs.”