Supporting our Young Carers in School: 

What is a young carer?

“Young carers are children or young people under the age of 18 who provide regular and on-going care and emotional support to a family member who is physically or mentally ill, disabled or misuses substances.”

One in twelve children and teenagers are looking after someone - but many are too embarrassed or afraid to come forward to ask for help, or, having been a carer for so long, they haven't recognised what they do.

Half of all young carers provide up to 10 hours of care a week, while many others are caring for more than 50 hours a week. It’s not surprising that young carers often struggle to fit in other activities like school work, playing sport or meeting up with friends.

Source:  https://www.cypnow.co.uk	Source:  https://www.childrenssociety.org.uk

Is your child a young carer?

Young carers look after family members or friends, living in the same house or elsewhere. They may be providing a variety of help, ranging from practical assistance with cooking or cleaning to personal care such as helping with washing, dressing and lifting, and emotional and supervisory support - amongst other things.

How can Surrey Young Carers help?

• Giving your child information, advice and guidance - in person, online, and in print
• Giving your child someone to talk to
• Talking to others on behalf of your child, to support your child as a carer
• Providing activities for 'downtime', fun, and a chance for your child to talk to others and make new friends
• Supporting your child with problems at school or college, or in making plans for the future

How to get in touch

Telephone	01483 568269
Email	syc@actionforcarers.org.uk
Website	https://www.surrey-youngcarers.org.uk/  - to access the SYC referral form.
	@syc_YoungCarers

How the school can help
We can help you complete a Young Carer assessment form for the referral to Surrey Young Carers.  Contact me via the school office or email:  hslw1@stmarys-byfleet.surrey.sch.uk