Young Carers: How a school lunch club is helping 75 young carers
Across England, children and young people who look after a loved one are taking part in a project to raise awareness of what it means to be a young carer.The Young Carers in Schools Award is given to schools who are helping spot young carers offer help for their individual needs.It also gives primary and secondary schools across England with step-by-step guidance for schools to gain the practical tools they need.At one secondary schools in Wiltshire, which has 75 young carers, that's meant help with lessons but also more fun events - like a lunch club.
What is a young carer?
A young carer is someone under the age of 18 who looks after a family member who may have an illness, disability or mental health condition. These young people often take on responsibilities that go beyond what is usually expected at their age.The Carers Trust say that, according to the most recent census data, at least 16,000 young carers in the UK are caring for 50 hours a week or more - some who are as young as five years old.
At the school in Wiltshire the club allows young carers to talk, share experiences, and feel less alone.Hannah, a student there, said: "It feels really good because loads of people at school don't know but then here, it's really fun because you don't have to hide anything."Year 7 student Eva added: "You get to meet up and it's a safe space to talk about stuff."James, in Year 8, explained how pupils are also helping each other: "The school's offering some of us young carers to mentor the younger students who are young carers. "I think it will help tell them that they're not alone in their situation."Children who are carers often take on adult responsibilities, for example they might need to help keep the house clean, or help family members with medication and appointments.Young carers may also have to use a lot of their free time to help out at home.
Where can young carers get help?
Charities like the Carers Trust and The Children's Society provide support and help for young people who are carers.Young carers in the UK also have a right to be given the information they need and have an assessment of their own needs.This is called a young carer assessment, or a young carer statement in Scotland.This can help decide what kind of help a young person and their family needs.Local authorities - also known as councils - are responsible for young carer assessments.Teachers and schools can also provide support.
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