Young Carers

At Robert Drake, we are committed to ensuring that all our pupils receive the support they need to thrive, including those who take on caring responsibilities at home. We want to make sure that our young carers are recognised, supported, and given the help they need to balance their education with their caring role. 

Who Are Young Carers? 

A young carer is a child or young person under the age of 18 who helps to look after a family member who has a disability, illness, mental health condition, or addiction. This might involve providing emotional support, helping with household tasks, or assisting with personal care. 

Support Available 

We have dedicated Young Carers Champions – Mrs Green and Mrs Ginn, who are available to provide support, guidance, and a listening ear for any young carers in our school. If you think your child may be a young carer, or if you would like more information, please contact the School Office. Alternatively, families can self-refer or a referral can be made by professionals by completing an online form or by emailing: young.carers@essex.gov.uk. 

At school, we offer: 

• A safe space in school where young carers can talk about their experiences; 

• Regular check-ins and emotional support; 

• Help with balancing school life with caring responsibilities; 

• Links to local and national young carer support services. 

Additional Information

https://youth.essex.gov.uk/young-people/young-carers/ 

https://www.essex.gov.uk/adult-social-care-and-health/support-carers/young-carers 

https://www.snapcharity.org/business-directory/6224/essex-young-carers-service/ 

https://carers.org/about-caring/about-young-carers 

https://www.childrenssociety.org.uk/what-we-do/our-work/supporting-young-carers 

https://carerschoices.org/