TEENAGERS can seem moody and uninterested at times, but a conference in the North-East yesterday portrayed them as quite the opposite - loyal, caring and determined.

The Barnardo's Hidden Carers conference in Stanley's Civic Centre, Derwentside, highlighted the sterling work of the thousands of young carers in the region.

Designed to highlight the often ignored work of young people who look after sick or disabled relatives, the conference also focused on the reasons why their support is often overlooked. Guilt and a desire to "keep it in the family" are the most common reasons.

The conference was organised by Derwentside Carers Support and featured presentations from TV agony aunt Denise Richardson, John Atkinson, of Barnardo's Derwentside, and Emma Stillwell, from Easington Young Carers.

Mr Atkinson told the conference that many youngsters develop health problems and it is not uncommon to find children as young as three in supporting roles.

He said: "A good proportion of young carers will be required to lift the person they are caring for. This results in a risk of developing back problems.

"Between a third and two thirds of children and young people who care for someone with a mental health problem will also develop a mental health problem.

"Young carers also miss out on schooling and career opportunities, with 71 per cent having been bullied because their home life is 'different'."

l Anyone experiencing difficulties with young carers issues can contact Barnardo's Young Carers schemes in the North-East on (01207) 283585 or 0191-587 0745, or Barnardo's, in North Yorkshire, on 0113-258 2115