To continue this arrangement?

[Catspyjamas424]

I know I am, but I feel so guilty!
For the past 5 years my (much younger), just turned 14 brother had stayed with me 2 nights a week. Our mother is a recovering alcoholic with mental health issues, and my brother has bad anxiety. During the last lockdown we stopped this arrangement and the home situation got that bad I had to go and collect my sibling to stay until lockdown was over (I was furloughed) . My brother has only just started feeling better about this recently, after moving back home after the lockdown and resuming the twice weekly stays.
With another lockdown looming, and it being allowed to ‘provide informal childcare for a child 13 and under’ do you think I can get away with continuing with this arrangement with a 14 year old? I am not furloughed this time so he can’t come and stay for the full month- I just feel so incredibly guilty I am either letting my sibling down or breaking the rules.

i think you should continue it

100% you should continue it, you shouldn’t feel bad about it at all or guilty!

Yes continue it. It's in his best interests.

That’s sounds like providing care to a vulnerable person, not childcare. So I wouldn’t even worry about whether he’s under 13.

If you live alone, can’t you bubble with their household anyway?

I think you can continue - it's providing care to a family member. I'd certainly carry on.

Keep doing your good work op...

Absolutely continue. Age isn't an issue if there is a risk to his wellbeing.

I remember some of your other posts.

You should continue, he needs it.

I don't think you'd even be breaking the law as I'm sure it would come under supporting someone with MH/care needs

Or under the 'children can move freely between separated parents homes' yes, you're his sister, not his father, but what's the difference?

He's 14. He needs you

Yes of course you can and should. It falls under caring for a vulnerable person.

Thank you all for your support- I will collect my brother as normal next week.

Absolutely continue it cat, its lovely to see the support you have for your brother, anyone who gives you any grief for this is a total arse!

I would continue

Stick with it - and well done you.

@Catspyjamas424

Thank you all for your support- I will collect my brother as normal next week.

Good!! If only all the kids who need it had a Big Sister like you, the world would be a much better place! Take care of yourself xx

Ignore everyone who voted that you are being unreasonable as you are making such a huge difference to your brothers life

Agree with everyone. This is a child, who needs you. There is no way any 'guidance' should prevent that.