Young carers can be a member of any family, from any background, and in any situation.

At Waddington Redwood Academy, we are aware that some children may well have caring roles at home. We believe that all young people should have equal access to education, regardless of what is happening at home. When a young person looks after somebody in their family who has a disability, mental or physical ill-health or substance misuse problem(s), they may need a little extra support to help them get the most out of school.

We aim to understand the issues faced by young carers and to support any children who help to look after somebody at home.

• We have a member of staff, Mrs Green, who has the responsibility for young carers;
• We can provide children with support and advice in school;
• All teaching staff are aware if a child in their class is part of our Young Carers group;
• We signpost parents towards useful information that may support them.

Young carers may be supporting a parent, brother, sister, grandparent or any other relative at home:

• with a physical disability;
• with a mental health condition;
• with a learning disability;
• who misuses alcohol or drugs;
• with a sensory impairment, such as hearing or sight loss;
• with a life limiting condition;
• with any other long term illness or condition;

Our Young Carers group meet regularly. Children will have the benefit of being able to have someone to talk to when they need to, and feel a lot safer and secure within school. If you think you know a child that might be a young carer, or that you might be a young carer yourself, please get in touch with Mrs Green.  All of the children know they are not going to be judged and that someone understands the additional responsibilities that they have to shoulder. It also makes these children happier when they see other young carers within school coping with their challenges and give great support to each other.