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Young carers hotseat: The 2001 Census found 175 000 young carers in the UK, but we know that only a fraction of that number receive any support during their childhood
Tuesday 21 September 2004 at 3.00p.m. — 4.00p.m.
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Introduction
Young carers are children and young people with a caring responsibility for someone in their family who has a physical or mental illness, a disability, or a substance misuse problem. They take on caring responsibilities such as personal care for a disabled adult or emotional care for a parent with a mental health problem and are often also responsible for younger siblings and all the household chores.
The 2001 census found 175,000 young carers in the UK, but it is known that only a fraction of that number receive any support during their childhood. This is despite the fact that young carers who take on inappropriate caring responsibilities for a sick or disabled family member are at risk of underachievement, absenteeism and bullying. Most young carers go unsupported throughout their childhood, while others bear heavy caring responsibilities for years before a noticeable deterioration in school attendance, achievement or behaviour results in a referral to an Education Welfare Officer, often too late to save their education.
So how do schools identify young carers before they develop complex problems requiring intensive interventions? Are there quick and easy forms of support that can be offered to young carers when they first take on a caring role? How do schools ensure that they are accessible to parents who have disabilities, illnesses or substance misuse problems?
Alex Fox, Young Carers Development Coordinator for the largest young carers' support provider in the UK, can help teachers with practical tips on identifying and supporting young carers, finding specialist young carers' services and keeping up to date with legislation and guidance in this rapidly developing area.
To read more about young carers see TeacherNet's article on the subject.
