Identifying and supporting Young Carers at Maidenbower Infant School. 

As a school we are committed to ensuring that all pupils get the support they need to have a positive school experience, are happy in school and can achieve their full potential. We know that for some pupils, factors outside of school can have a big impact on this, particularly if they are a young carer. We are currently working towards a Young Carers in School award Young Carers In Schools Award | Young Carers | The Children's Society to ensure we are raising educational outcomes for all our pupils including those who are young carers.  

Definition of a Young Carer 

A young carer is a young person under the age of 18 whose life is affected by the care needs of another person, who may have any disability or long-term illness. ​ 

​This could be anybody with a physical or learning disability, mental health condition, long term chronic health condition, someone who misuses drugs or alcohol, or is elderly and frail.​ 

Pupils can be young carers for lots of different reasons: 

• They might be providing physical support to a parent with a physical illness such as fibromyalgia or ME, such as cooking, fetching things or helping with things like putting shoes on or doing the shopping 

• They might be helping a parent with a disability who needs help with more personal tasks such as getting dressed, bathing or changing dressings 

• Or it could be more emotional support – for example if their autistic sibling is upset, taking responsibility for young siblings whilst parents attend health appointments, or checking that a parent with depression/anxiety is ok. 

• Some young carers might be doing lots of caring, others just a small amount but are impacted by the situation at home for example by worrying about the person with the health condition, or needing to do more things for themselves compared to other pupils.  

Assembly 

On the 12th March with the support of West Sussex Young Carers Service we delivered an age appropriate and child friendly assembly to pupils explaining what a young carer is and what support there is available. Following the assembly Class teachers had discussions with their classes and invited children to share any support they provide their family outside of school. This information is for school only and will help us to identify any pupils that may benefit from some additional pastoral support. 

Support Available 

There is lots of support available for young carers and their families should they ever need it – both inside and outside of school. If you think that any of the above applies to your child, and that they might possibly be a young carer then please let us know by either contacting your class teacher or Mrs Tomlinson via the school office, completing the reply slip below or using this link to a Forms questionnaire. https://forms.office.com/e/BD2y5hr4m6?origin=lprLink