Young Carers
At North Durham Academy, we are committed to supporting young carers and believe that both they and their families deserve appropriate support. Young carers are entitled to a full and positive education, and at North Durham Academy we are dedicated to ensuring they receive the understanding, flexibility, and support they need to succeed.
Young carers may take on practical and/or emotional responsibilities at home because someone in their family has a physical or learning disability, a long-term illness, experiences mental ill health, or has issues related to alcohol or drug use.
Being a young carer can be challenging. Young carers may feel they do not have enough time for themselves, their friendships, homework, or out-of-school activities.
Young carers often take on responsibilities that go beyond what would typically be expected for their age, which may include:
- Helping with household tasks such as cooking, cleaning, washing, or shopping
- Assisting someone to get dressed or move around
- Managing or supporting with medication and collecting prescriptions
- Helping to manage money or pay bills
- Caring for younger siblings
- Providing emotional support to family members
Without this support, loved ones may struggle to cope, and children and young people may take on additional responsibilities to help at home. These responsibilities can impact a young carer’s education, wellbeing, and their opportunity to enjoy childhood.
Young adult carers may also require bespoke support to help them balance education, work, and caring responsibilities.
Here at North Durham Academy, we have a dedicated member of staff who works closely with young carers to ensure their voice is heard and that appropriate support is in place. With permission of the child, we also ensure that relevant information is shared with key staff, so they have a clear understanding of the role and responsibilities of a young carer and can provide consistent, informed support.
Further information about Young Carers can be found at the following links:
The Bridge Young Carers & Young Adult Carers Service
The Bridge Young Carers Service - Family Action
Young Minds
https://www.youngminds.org.uk/young-person/coping-with-life/young-carers
Carers Trust UK
Young Carers - Help & Support | Carers Trust
NHS
Help for young carers - Social care and support guide - NHS
If you would like any more information about our commitment to supporting young carers or if there is someone in your family fulfilling a caring role, please ask to speak to Mrs Menear (Head of Student Support & Designated Safeguarding Lead) D.Menear@ndacademy.co.uk