A Young Carer is someone under the age of 18 who helps to look after a relative with a disability, illness, mental health condition, or drug or alcohol problem. Young Carers typically look after one of their parents or care for a brother or sister. We endeavour to identify whether a student is a young carer if they are severely or persistently absent, so that we can support them and their family, in order that the student can be helped to get back into school. The Children's Commissioner outlines some of the key issues for Young Carers in 'The Big Ask Voices: Shining a light on young carers', and the NHS sets out the rights of young carers, which can be viewed here. The Carers' Trust provides more information about Young Carers, along with advice and support. Barnado's also provide support and advice for Young Carers in their 'All children deserve a childhood' page, and The Children's Society also provide advice and support here. The Young Minds Mental Health Charity also provide support for Young Carers, which can be viewed here. And information and support for Devon Young Carers can be accessed here.
The Carers' Trust have produced a short film on 'Who are young carers?'
The Children's Society host an Annual Young Carers Festival. This short film showcases the Young Carers' festival in 2018.