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Supporting Young Carers

Support for Young Carers

At our school, we recognise that some pupils take on caring responsibilities for a family member. We are committed to identifying and supporting young carers so they can thrive in school, achieve their potential, and enjoy their education.

 

What is a Young Carer?

A young carer is a child or young person who helps to look after someone in their family who may have:

  • A long-term illness or disability
  • Mental health needs
  • Substance misuse issues

We understand that these responsibilities can impact a child’s wellbeing, attendance, and learning.

 

Our Commitment

We are committed to:

  • Creating a safe, supportive, and understanding environment
  • Ensuring young carers are identified early and supported effectively
  • Removing barriers to learning and participation
  • Promoting wellbeing, resilience, and inclusion

 

Identification and Confidentiality

We aim to identify young carers sensitively and respectfully:

  • Staff are trained to recognise signs that a pupil may have caring responsibilities
  • Pupils and families can speak confidentially with a member of staff
  • Information is handled sensitively and shared only when appropriate

 

Pastoral Support

We provide a strong network of support:

  • Designated Young Carers Leads (ELSAs) as a key point of contact
  • Regular check-ins to offer guidance and emotional support
  • A safe space for pupils to talk about their experiences
  • Peer support opportunities where appropriate

 

Academic Support

We recognise that caring responsibilities may affect learning. We offer:

  • Flexibility with homework and deadlines where needed
  • Additional support to catch up on missed work
  • Access to intervention sessions or targeted academic support
  • Consideration around attendance and punctuality

 

Wellbeing Support

Supporting emotional health is a priority:

  • Access to ELSA support/check-ins and wellbeing support when needed
  • Opportunities to take breaks when needed
  • Activities that promote confidence, resilience, and self-care
  • Half Termly workshops for children to spend time together whilst taking part in an art and crafts activity.

 

Working with Families and External Support

We work closely with families and outside organisations to ensure the best support:

  • Regular communication with parents/carers
  • Signposting to local Young Carers services and support groups
  • Collaboration with external agencies where appropriate, including Suffolk Family Carers  

Raising Awareness

We aim to build understanding and reduce stigma by:

  • Promoting awareness of young carers within the school community
  • Encouraging an inclusive and supportive culture

Coming soon:

  • Participating in events such as Young Carers Action Day

 

"I have heard great things from some of the young carers I have seen over the holidays regarding the sessions at Westgate. When are you running them? It would be great to arrange a date to pop in and be a part of one of the groups."

Alex Brentnall, Young Carer Advisor at Suffolk Family Carers

 

Comments from our Young Carers (March 2026)

"Meeting other young carers because I didn't know anyone."

"I liked making the helping hands for the display."

 

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