The local authority has recently published the Carers Strategy in which there are significant plans to improve support for young carers. The first priority is about the identification and recognition of young carers. The Governments School census now requires schools to identify young carers.
From Spring 2023, young carers are going to be included on the school census return. This will contribute to the implementation of the local strategy; enable a much better picture of the number of young carers in schools, provide opportunities to use this data to monitor attendance and attainment of young carers and help to ensure young carers get the support they need.
It is likely that you will have at least 1 or 2 young carers in every class in every year group in your school.
If young carers are not identified at an early stage, they often end up taking on inappropriate and excessive levels of caring responsibilities. This can have a significant impact on their education, health and future opportunities.
The Young Carers Alliance has developed a Young Carers and Schools Communications Pack.pdf (346 KB) and is asking for your help to ensure that all young carers in the country are identified and supported. Raising awareness amongst students and parents is a vital part of identifying young carers. Bristol and South Gloucestershire Young Carers Service can help you improve identification and outcomes for young carers through the free Young Carers in Schools Local Offer.pptx (1594 KB) contact vickih@carerssupportcentre.org.uk for more information.