What is a Young Carer?
According to the NHS Website-
You're a young carer if you're under 18 and help to look after a relative with a disability, illness, mental health condition, or drug or alcohol problem.
If you're a young carer, you probably look after one of your parents or care for a brother or sister.
You may do extra jobs in and around the home, such as cooking, cleaning or helping someone get dressed and move around.
You may also give a lot of physical help to a parent, brother or sister who's disabled or ill.
Along with doing things to help your brother or sister, you may be giving them and your parents emotional support, too.
Young Carers at Howard Junior School
Currently, we have ten pupils who have taken on significant caring responsibilities at home, whether for a parent, guardian, or sibling. These young individuals are shouldering challenges that far exceed their years, and it is imperative that we, as a school, both acknowledge and celebrate their immense responsibilities.
Recently, we received the disheartening news regarding the closure of West Norfolk Young Carers, an organisation that has provided valuable support to our young carers over the years. Their contributions included facilitating trips, out-of-school meetings, and bi-weekly support sessions led by Jackie Haverson. The closure of this service has undoubtedly created a gap in the support network for our young carers, who rely on such initiatives for both social engagement and emotional well-being.
As part of our commitment, we have taken various initiatives to raise awareness about the challenges faced by young carers. These include whole-school assemblies, informative displays, non-uniform days, and bake sales. Participation in these events has helped foster a greater understanding amongst pupils and staff alike about the responsibilities and struggles that young carers experience.
Our current support measures include fortnightly meetings designed to provide a safe space for young carers to express their thoughts and concerns. During these sessions, snacks are offered, and participants have the opportunity to unwind away from their academic responsibilities. We believe it is vital to facilitate such environments where they can feel valued and heard.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
If you are a parent/carer, and you feel your young person would benefit from this support, please contact Sophie Hopkins - our Young Carer Lead- sophie.hopkins@hjs.eastern-mat.co.uk.