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Young Carers

At Eastern High we are aware that some of our pupils are young carers. A Young Carer is a child under 18 who regularly helps to look after a family member or friend who is disabled, ill, has a mental health condition or addiction problem.

Children may engage in:

  • Practical tasks (cooking, housework and shopping)
  • Physical care (lifting or helping someone use the stairs)
  • Personal care (dressing, washing, helping with toilet needs)
  • Managing the family budget (collecting benefits and prescriptions)
  • Managing medication
  • Looking after younger siblings
  • Helping someone communicate

Research suggests there are at least 700,000 young carers in the UK, but many do not realise they are a young carer. In fact, the 2023 school census reported that there were 39,000 "known" young carers in the country.

We know that young carers may need a little extra support to enjoy and do well at school. At Eastern High we are committed to ensuring that all pupils who are young carers are identified and supported effectively.

Please be aware that in order to access Young Carers, parents, or guardians will first need to have liaised with the local council and filled in all relevant documentation. 

We can offer additional pastoral support, Young carers after school club and access to opportunities outside school. We link up with Cardiff Council Young Carers Service to offer our pupils more support both within school and outside of school.

At Eastern High we have a lead professional, Mrs C Rees, who has responsibility for ensuring all young carers are able to enjoy school and make good progress. If you think your child might be a young carer, or could be affected by any of the issues we’ve highlighted, please let us know by speaking to your child's House Support Manager or please contact the school on 02920 792751 and ask to speak to Mrs C Rees.

Pupils in school can contact Mrs Hill or Mrs Gilbert for any Young Carers queries or support.

Any information that is given to us will be treated sensitively, and no information will be shared without your knowledge.