We believe that all children and young people have the right to an education, regardless of what is happening at home. When a child cares for a family member with long-term physical or mental health conditions or a disability, they may need extra support to help them succeed at school.
A young carer is a young person, under the age of 18, who has a caring responsibility.
You are a young carer if you:
- Do practical tasks such as cooking, housework and shopping
- Carry out physical care, such as helping someone out of bed
- Provide emotional support, such as talking to someone who is distressed
- Give personal care, such as helping someone dress
- Managing the family budget and collecting prescriptions
- Help with medicines
- Help someone to communicate
- Look after brothers and sisters with additional needs
Young Carers are skilled in many ways because of their caring experiences but understandably, carrying out responsibilities can result in physical and emotional tiredness. This can have an effect on their school work, relationships with friends, and ability to engage in leisure activities.
Many young carers are not recognised or are ‘hidden’ and may find it difficult to balance their own needs and those they are caring for. At Queen’s Hill Primary, we pride ourselves in doing our best to recognise who our young carers are and emphasise that it is something to be proud of!
Our school’s approach to supporting Young Carers:
- Children at our school, who are young carers, meet together half-termly with our nurture teachers. During this time they have an opportunity to meet with others, relax and have fun! Parents/Carers sign a form to consent for their child to participate in young carers activities. If you believe your child is a young carer and attends our school, please speak to the school office because we would love to get them involved!
- Parents/carers have the opportunity to identify if their child is a Young Carer during the admission process
- We raise awareness about Young Carers through assemblies
- Staff receive regular training about Young Carers including who they are and how best to support them
- Mrs Castell, Mrs Eastaugh and Mrs Suffield are dedicated Young Carers Champions. Young Carers in the school know that they can talk to the Champions if they are ever worried about something.
- When appropriate, some Young Carers with access additional nurture provision and counselling sessions to support their well-being