Sarah Ann Buday

Sarah Ann Buday (16), from Ireland, grew up as the eldest of five children. She became a young carer for her younger sister, who has Down syndrome and other complex medical needs, while also caring for her three brothers when her parents were in hospital. Her experience showed her how much young carers contribute, often without enough recognition or support.

She has spoken twice at the Irish Parliament in Leinster House, calling attention to the needs of young carers and advocating for policy change. Her advocacy contributed to a successful labor Party motion in March 2025 recognising and supporting Ireland’s 67,000 young carers.

Sarah Ann also represents young carers at national and European levels. She is active in Comhairle na nÓg, the National Youth Assembly and the National Youth Council of Ireland. In November 2025, she represented Ireland at the Eurocarers Conference in Amsterdam and helped shape the Amsterdam Message from Young Carers.

Through conferences including Child Talks 2024 and the National Young Carers Conference in 2026, Sarah Ann continues to bring young carers’ experiences into conversations about children’s rights and policy.