Supporting Our Young Carers

At Holly Trees, we recognise that some children and young people have additional responsibilities at home because they help to care for a family member. These pupils are known as Young Carers.

A Young Carer is someone under 18 who helps to care for a parent, sibling or other family member who may have a disability, long-term illness, mental health need, or substance misuse issue. Young Carers often take on practical and emotional responsibilities that can have an impact on their education, wellbeing and social life.

How We Support Young Carers

We are committed to ensuring that all Young Carers feel recognised, valued and supported so they can fully participate in school life and achieve their potential.

Our support may include:

• A named member of staff who is available to listen and offer support.
• Regular check-ins and wellbeing support.
• Understanding and flexibility around homework, attendance or punctuality where appropriate.
• Access to clubs, enrichment activities and opportunities to build friendships.
• Signposting to specialist support services.
• Working closely with families and external agencies where appropriate.

Could My Child Be a Young Carer?

Your child may be a Young Carer if they:

• Help to look after a family member because of illness, disability or age.
• Provide emotional support to someone at home.
• Help with household tasks such as cooking, cleaning or shopping.
• Look after younger brothers or sisters.
• Help manage medication or attend appointments.

Young Carers Support in Essex

The Essex Young Carers Service provides free, personalised support for children and young people who have caring responsibilities. Support includes one-to-one sessions with a key worker, information and advice, confidence-building activities, access to counselling where appropriate, and opportunities to meet other young carers.

Useful Essex support services include:

• Essex Young Carers Service (Essex Youth Service)
  https://youth.essex.gov.uk/young-people/young-carers/
  Support, advice, activities and referrals for young carers across Essex

• Essex SEND Information, Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS)
  https://www.essexsendiass.co.uk/young-people/young-carers/
  Information and guidance for young carers and their families.

• Action for Family Carers
  https://affc.org.uk/services/young-carers/
  Local support groups, activities, advice and respite opportunities for young carers across Essex.

How to Access Support

If you think your child may be a Young Carer, please contact the school office or speak to Mrs Fleming or Mrs Palmer.

By working together with families and specialist services, we can ensure that our Young Carers receive the recognition, support and opportunities they deserve.