Thrapston Primary School
12/11/24
Identifying and supporting young carers at Thrapston Primary School
At TPS, we are aware that some of our pupils are young carers. A young carer is a young person
aged 5 – 16 who looks after someone who couldn't manage without their help. This could mean looking after a parent, brother or sister, grandparent or family friend who has a disability, long term illness, or drug and alcohol related issues.
A young carer may be helping with chores around the house to keep the house manageable for the person they care for, they may be preparing food and drinks, sorting out medication, or looking after younger brothers and sisters. Some of them might be providing personal care. Most young carers will be ensuring the person they care for is well and safe and keeping them company. A large number of young carers will feel responsible for the emotional wellbeing of the person they care for. Research suggests there are at least 700,000 young carers in the UK but many do not realise they are a young carer.
Our wonderful Mrs Golding has recently taken on the role of Young Carers' Champion in school, working within the Pastoral Care Team, and she wants to ensure we are effectively supporting young carers and their wellbeing.
We know that young carers may need a little extra
support to enjoy and do well at school. At TPS, we are committed to ensuring that all pupils who are young carers are identified, and supported effectively. We need your help to ensure all pupils who may be a Young Carer are identified.
Some young carers worry about bullying and may be tired, worried, find it difficult to concentrate and have limited time for friendships and activities after school. Here are some of the things that schools can do to support someone who is a young carer: extra help with homework, flexibility around calling home, a trusted adult to talk to, offering young carers social groups. We can also signpost families to further advice on benefits, local support groups and more.
Northamptonshire Young Carers service also offer wonderful support to young carers and we can
make referrals to their service so our pupils can also access their support. Please take a look at
their website for further information. https://www.northamptonshire-carers.org/young-carersservice
If you think your child might be a young carer, or could be affected by any of the issues we've
highlighted, please contact Mrs Golding initially via email at claire.golding@thrapston.net
with the following information:
Name of Parent/Carer:
Name of pupil (Young Carer):
Best form of contact (email/phone/mail):
Any information that is given to us will be treated sensitively and no information will be shared without your knowledge.
Many thanks for your support.