Young Carers

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Here at Whiteley we are committed to supporting all of our children, including our Young Carers.

Who is a Young Carer?

A Young Carer is someone aged 18 or under who helps look after a relative who has a condition such as:

  • A physical disability
  • A learning disability
  • A long term illness
  • A mental health condition, or misuses substances or alcohol

 

If you think that your child may be a Young Carer, please contact the designated lead Mrs Wyatt via the school office on 01489 881601.

 

What things does a Young Carer do?

A Young Carer takes on additional responsibilities. A Young Carer might be providing the main care or share responsibilities with another family member. The caring task can range greatly from:

  • Giving medication or helping with mobility
  • Washing, dressing, feeding
  • Listening, supporting a relative through depression, being there to talk to
  • Washing, shopping, cleaning
  • Paying bills
  • Helping look after a sibling

 

How do we support Young Carers at Whiteley Primary School?

  • There is a designated lead member of staff responsible for the well-being of Young Carers
  • A notice board for children to find out information about Young Carers
  • A notice board for staff to help them identify a Young Carer and give them guidance on how best to support them
  • Our Young Carers club meets twice a term on a Friday lunchtime, 12-1pm. They all eat lunch together and then move on to some games, crafting activities or free play.
  • A letterbox/worry box where children can post their concerns or questions if the designated lead teacher is unavailable.
  • A full time Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)
  • Access to the school nursing team
  • A referral system to Hampshire Young Carers Alliance to access other support outside of school (Motiv8 for Fareham and Gosport area; Winchester & District Young Carers for North Whiteley).

 

The Young Carers Group

  • Will always respect each other and listen to each other carefully
  • Will not laugh at or make fun of other children’s reasons for being a Young Carer
  • Will not talk to others about other people’s personal/private information
  • Will support each other
  • Will create a welcoming environment