Young Carers

At St Augustine's Catholic College, we are committed to supporting the wellbeing and educational success of every student. We recognise that some pupils take on additional responsibilities at home by helping to care for a family member, and we want to ensure these young people receive the understanding and support they deserve.

What is a Young Carer?

A young carer is a child or young person under the age of 18 who helps care for a family member or close friend who may have:

a physical disability
a long-term illness
a mental health condition
additional needs
substance misuse issues

Young carers may help with practical tasks, emotional support, or looking after siblings. While many young people are proud to help their families, caring responsibilities can sometimes affect their school life, wellbeing or opportunities.

How we support Young Carers

Our school aims to identify young carers and provide the right support so they can succeed in school and feel supported.

We offer a range of support, including:

A designated Young Carers Lead who pupils and families can contact for support
Support from our pastoral and safeguarding team
Understanding and flexibility around homework, punctuality or deadlines where appropriate
A safe space in school for students who may need time or support during the day
Opportunities for young carers to connect with others in similar situations through activities and drop-in sessions
Access to school counselling or wellbeing support if needed
Links with external organisations and local services that support young carers
Supportive drop-in sessions where young carers can connect with peers, share experiences and access guidance if needed.

We also work closely with staff across the school to ensure they understand the challenges young carers may face and how best to support them.

Identifying Young Carers

Young carers may be identified in a number of ways, including:

Information shared by parents or carers
A pupil speaking to a member of staff
Information from previous schools or external services
Concerns raised by teachers or pastoral staff

We understand that some families may prefer to keep caring roles private. Any conversations will always be handled sensitively and confidentially, and support will only be provided with the family’s agreement wherever possible.

Working with families

We believe that working in partnership with families is essential. If your child has caring responsibilities at home, letting us know can help us make sure the right support is in place.

Sharing this information helps us ensure your child feels understood and supported during their time at school.

Contact us

If you believe your child may be a young carer or would like to discuss support available, please contact:

Young Carers Lead: Miss Lynsey Carter

Young Carers SLT Lead: Mr Jordan Mockett

Email: youngcarers@st-augustines.wilts.sch.uk

“Young carers show incredible strength, kindness and responsibility every day, at St Augustine's we are proud to recognise and support them."

All conversations will be treated with care and confidentiality.

Further support

If appropriate, we may signpost families to local organisations that provide support for young carers and their families.

The link below provides further information about the Young Carers Assessment through the Integrated Front Door (IFD), including how to register a young carer for support. It also includes details about Youth Action Wiltshire and the services and support they provide for young carers.

https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/children-young-people-young-carers

Youth Action Wiltshire delivers the Young Carers Service. For more information about the support and opportunities available through the YAW Young Carers Service, please see the link below.

https://www.communityfirst.org.uk/yaw/young-carers/

Young Carers Magazine – this is the link to sign up for your own copy.

https://surveys.wiltshire.gov.uk/Interview/38313737-0818-44e3-8a5b-3257982353d2