Young Carers
Support for Young Carers at Newall Green Primary School
What is a Young Carer?
A young carer is a child or young person under the age of 18 who provides, or intends to provide, care or support to someone who needs help because of a disability, physical or mental health condition, illness, addiction or another difficulty.
A young carer might help to look after a parent, brother or sister, grandparent or another family member. Their caring role could include things such as helping with personal care, preparing meals, cleaning, shopping, collecting prescriptions, helping with medication, looking after siblings or providing emotional support.
Some young carers take on responsibilities that are easy to notice, while others may provide support in less obvious ways. A young person does not necessarily need to provide hands-on care to be affected by a caring role. They may become more independent or take on additional responsibilities because another member of their family needs support.
Being a young carer can sometimes have an impact on a child's wellbeing, friendships, learning, attendance and opportunities to take part in activities. Some children and families may not realise that the support they provide means they are a young carer.
At Newall Green Primary School, we want every child to feel safe, supported and able to enjoy school and reach their full potential.
Our aims for our Young Carers
We aim to ensure that:
- Young carers attend and enjoy school and are supported to reach their full potential.
- Young carers' wellbeing is supported and they develop the skills and confidence they need for the future.
- Young carers have the same opportunities as other children to learn, play, develop friendships and take part in school life.
- Parents and carers are supported so that children are able to attend school and make the most of their education.
- Our school community understands and respects disability, illness, mental health needs and caring responsibilities.
- Young carers feel listened to and know that they have someone in school they can talk to.
How do we support Young Carers at Newall Green?
We maintain a Young Carers Register in school so that we can identify children who have caring responsibilities at home and make sure they receive appropriate support.
If you think your child may be a young carer, please contact the school. You can ask for your child to be considered for our Young Carers Register, and we can talk with you about the support that may be helpful.
Our Young Carers Lead is Sarah Burton.
Mrs Burton is the point of contact for young carers in school. Throughout the school year, activities and opportunities are planned to support our young carers, help them connect with others and give them time to enjoy activities together.
We also have support from our Place2Be Therapist, who currently works with some of our young carers in a small group. This provides an opportunity for children to talk about their feelings and experiences in a supportive and safe environment.
Where appropriate, we can also work with other professionals and services to make sure that children and families receive the right support.
Additional Support for Young Carers
There are also organisations that provide information, advice and support for young carers and their families.
Carers Manchester – Young Carers
Carers Manchester provides information, advice and support for young carers and their families across Manchester.
Carers Manchester – Young Carers
Manchester City Council – Young Carers
Manchester City Council provides information about support for young carers, including information about young carers' needs assessments.
Manchester City Council – Young Carers
The Children's Society – Young Carers
The Children's Society provides information and advice for young carers, including support with education, wellbeing, rights and finding further help.
The Children's Society – Young Carers
Need Some Help?
If you think your child may be a young carer, or you would simply like to talk to someone about the support available, please contact the school.
Young Carers Lead: Sarah Burton
Email: s.burton@newallgreen.manchester.sch.uk
You do not need to wait until you are sure that your child is a young carer before getting in touch. We are happy to talk things through and help you find the right support.
Every child deserves the opportunity to enjoy their childhood, learn, make friends and thrive. We are here to support our young carers and their families.