Table 3 Themes and subthemes

1. Challenges in protecting loved ones from the virus

1.1. Confusing and rapidly changing advice

1.2. Outsiders flouting the rules

1.3. Difficulties encouraging loved ones to follow the rules

2. Changes to and loss of routine

2.1. Loss of routine afforded via education

2.2. Increased caring responsibilities due to lack of support

2.3. Loss of self-care routines and practices

3. Reduced access to pre-pandemic informal and formal support structures

3.1. Limited in-person contact with the wider family

3.2. Limited contact with friends for emotional support

3.3. Limited wellbeing support via educational pathways

3.4. Limited health and social care services to support young carers

3.5. Local authority and non-statutory bodies ‘filling the gap’

4. Better understanding of inner resilience and goals