What is a Young Carer?
A Young Carer is someone under the age of 18 who has caring responsibilities for a family member at home.
They are classed as a Young Carer if they provide regular caring tasks that consist of:
- Supporting a family member with a physical or learning disability
- Supporting a family member with a mental health problem
- Supporting a family member with a long-term illness
- Supporting with intimate personal care and hygiene
- Supporting with paying bills
- Supporting with childcare for other siblings
- Practical support in the home such as housework, shopping or cooking
- Administering or supporting with medication
At Tiffin, we are fully committed to identifying and supporting our young carers, as we know that balancing education with the immense responsibility of looking after a loved one can sometimes impact a child’s wellbeing and academic progress. By recognizing these incredible students early, we can wrap the right support around them – whether that means offering flexible homework deadlines, pastoral support, providing in-school study spaces, or allowing discreet phone access so they can check on family during the day. However, we completely understand that families and children may feel hesitant to come forward due to worries about stigma, judgment, or fear of external services becoming involved. Please be assured that any information shared with us will always be handled with the utmost sensitivity and respect. Our sole priority is to create a safe, compassionate environment where your child can thrive both at home and in the classroom, ensuring they are protected, supported, and never feel alone.
If you believe your child is a Young Carer, please fill out this form or get in contact with Alice Stone (Safeguarding Manager and Young Carer Lead) at astone@tiffin.kingston.sch.uk
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