Young Carers

Identifying and supporting Young Carers at St Andrew's CE Primary

We are aware that some of our pupils are young carers. A young carer is someone under 18 who is caring unpaid for a family member or a friend who is ill, disabled, or has a mental health problem or an addiction.

They often take on practical and/or emotional caring responsibilities that would normally be expected of an adult. Research suggests there are at least 800,000 young carers in the UK, but many do not realise they are a young carer.

St Andrew's CE Primary School have been awarded the 'Bronze' award by the Young Carers in Schools programme for the work we do to ensure Young Carers can reach their full potential in school. We recognise that children who are Young Carers might need some extra support at school, and, to reach the Bronze award, we have demonstrated that we provide support for these children in many ways.

As a Young Carer, children may engage in:

Shopping, cooking, cleaning
Managing medicines or money
Providing personal care
Helping get people out of the house
Keeping an eye on someone
Providing emotional support

We know that young carers may need a little extra support to enjoy and do well at school. At St Andrew's CE Primary School, we are committed to identifying, supporting and meeting the needs of Young Carers so that they can attend and enjoy school in the same way as their peers. We offer much support for identified young carers and their families;

Weekly support group
Confidential drop box for concerns and questions from children
Firm and supportive relationships with parents/families
Links with school Family Links Worker
Notice boards within the school building, offering information and advice for both parents and children and signposting who to speak to for more advice

We are aware that Young Carers looking after someone also gain valuable skills in that role such as;