Young Carers

The King Alfred School – an Academy is dedicated to identifying and supporting students who are young carers.

Definitions of a young carer:

  • “A young carer is a person under 18 who regularly provides emotional and/or practical support and assistance for a family member who is disabled, physically or mentally unwell or who misuses substances” Child Law Advice

  • “Children and young people (under 18) who provide or intend to provide a substantial amount of care on a regular basis” The Carers (Recognition and Services) Act 1995

  • “A young carer is somebody who cares for or is affected by someone else at home – usually a parent or sibling – who suffers from physical or mental ill health, or who has substance misuse issues” youngcarers.org.uk

  • “A young carer is someone who cares for a friend or family member who, due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction, cannot cope without their support” Carers Trust

Responsibilities of a young carer can include:

  • Practical tasks, such as cooking, housework and shopping

  • Physical care, such as helping someone to get out of bed

  • Emotional support, including talking to someone who is distressed

  • Personal care, such as helping someone to wash and/or dress

  • Financial tasks, such as managing budgets

  • Helping to give someone medicine

  • Helping someone to communicate, such as signing or interpreting

  • Looking after siblings

Support

We run a youth group for young carers every Monday:

Lunch A – E10

Lunch B – E1

There is a notice board dedicated to young carers in the Canteen, including signposting to different support services such as: