A young carer is someone aged 18 or under who regularly helps to look after a relative who may be disabled, has long-term illness, a mental health condition or an addiction problem.

Children may engage in:

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

For some young carers, school can be a place where they can forget about their caring roles but also somewhere where they feel people may not understand what life is like for them at home.

At George Spicer, we are aware that many of our pupils have these responsibilities and are we are here to support them. Our Learning Mentors run a regular peer support group for young carers at George Spicer. During these sessions the children have the opportunity to talk with their peers, take part in art and craft activities, enjoy the sensory garden and visit the local parks.

If you would like to speak to somebody about how we can support your child, please contact Jenny Masini, Young Carers Lead or Angela Eberle, Deputy Head teacher and Senior Lead for Young Carers. All contact will be treated in the strictest confidence.

For further support please click on the links below:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/social-care-and-support/who-can-help-young-carers/

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/social-care-and-support/young-carers-rights/

https://enfieldcarers.org/young-carers/