What are young carers?
Young carers are children under 18 who look after a family member or a friend. There are many reasons why they may take on this role. Their extra responsibilities often mean they miss out on school and hanging out with friends. It can change and affect their whole childhood.
Who are young carers?
Some young children, often from an early age, take on regular or ongoing care and support for another family member (usually a parent or sibling) with a physical or mental illness, a disability, or who is struggling with substance misuse.
Why do young carers need support?
Young carers often have to assume a level of responsibility that would normally only be asked of an adult. The stress and anxiety that this can cause can leave them feeling isolated and unsupported. Many miss out on their childhood and youth as time constraints make it impossible for them to attend school or take part in leisure activities with their peers.
How do we want to support Young Carers?
We want to make sure every young carer gets the same opportunities in education as well as in life as those who don’t have to care for someone. It shouldn’t have to hold them back.
We know that young carers may need a little extra support to enjoy and do well at school. At Milford Haven School we are committed to ensuring that all pupils who are young carers are identified, and supported effectively.
We can offer additional pastoral support, small group workshops and access to opportunities outside of school. We can link up to outside agencies to offer our pupils more support both within school and outside of school.
At Milford Haven School, our Assistant Head teacher together with Mrs Griffiths have responsibility for ensuring all young carers are able to enjoy school and make good progress. If you think your child might be a young carer, or could be affected by any of the issues we’ve highlighted, please let us know by speaking to Mrs Griffiths please contact school on 01646 690021
Please be assured that any information shared will be treated sensitively and confidentially. No information will be shared outside our school without your knowledge.
