Young Carers

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The pastoral care of all pupils is a priority at Llantilio Pertholey.  We are aware that some of our young children help out more than their peers at home: these children are young carers.  A Young Carer is a child under 18 who regularly helps to look after a family member or friend who is disabled, ill, has a mental health condition or an addiction problem. 

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A Young Carer does not have to be registered.

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Children may engage in:

• Practical tasks (cooking, housework and shopping)

• Physical care (lifting or helping someone use the stairs)

• Personal care (dressing, washing, helping with toilet needs)

• Managing the family budget (collecting benefits and prescriptions)

• Managing medication

• Looking after younger siblings

• Helping someone communicate

 

When completing one or more of these tasks becomes a necessity, then we would classify a pupil as a young carer.  Research suggests there are at least 800,000 young carers in the UK but many do not realise they are a young carer.

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We know that young carers may need a little extra support to enjoy and do well at school. At Llantilio Pertholey we are committed to ensuring that all pupils who are young carers are identified, and supported effectively.

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We can offer additional pastoral support, small group workshops and access to opportunities outside school.  We can link up to outside agencies to offer our pupils more support both within school and outside of school.

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At Llantilio Pertholey, our Young Carer Lead, Nic Balkwill, 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 your class teacher or please contact school on 01873 853476 and ask to speak to Nic Balkwill.

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Please be assured that any information shared will be treated sensitively and confidentially.  No information will be shared outside our school without your knowledge.