AN inspirational carer who looked after her father as he struggled with a number of health problems has won a top national award.

Zoey McCarthy, age 25, of Worcester, won the inspiration honour at the Kids Count 2013 awards and went to the Houses of Parliament to collect her trophy.

She met Worcester MP Robin Walker who presented her with her award on Monday, June 24. Miss McCarthy was her father’s primary carer for 10 years, having also cared for him prior to that time, living with him in a single-parent household as her siblings lived elsewhere.

Her father suffered from a range of illnesses including diabetes, epilepsy, mental health issues and the effects of a head injury. He had been in and out of hospital for several years and recently lost his battle with his failing health, passing away in March.

Throughout, Miss McCarthy was his main carer managing the house, giving some personal care, taking care of finances, medication and providing emotional support, despite battling dyslexia and other health issues herself.

Neil Phillips, YSS (youth support service) key worker for the Worcestershire Young Carers (WYC) team, nominated her for the award and she was quick to thank them for helping her.

“I am really proud to receive this award and have recognition for the care that I gave to my dad,” she said.

“I have received a lot of support from young carers over the years and am pleased to be able to give something back as I do in my role of volunteer.” YSS WYC supported Miss McCarthy with a range of issues over the years, including housing and education, as well as providing one-to-one support, someone to talk to, and help with referrals to other services.

And Worcester MP Mr Walker said he was aware of how special she was having met her last year. “She is an inspirational young carer who I first met when the Worcestershire Young Carers came to Parliament last year,” he said.