There’s at least two young carers in every Surrey classroom
Are you one of the 15,000 young carers in school in Surrey?
We know that looking after someone can keep you busy, and it can be hard to fit in school and friends, especially if you feel no-one else understands your situation as a young carer.
But there’s lots of support available – from your school and from us at Action for Carers – ensuring you get all the help you need.
If mum needs help and I have homework to do, the homework has to wait.
How school can help
Although getting away from home and seeing your friends at school or college can be good, it’s important that you let staff know you have caring responsibilities.
You may find it hard to concentrate in lessons, to get your homework in on time, or find the time and space to revise for exams.
You’re not alone in this. Many young carers face similar challenges. The more teachers understand your situation, the more supportive they will be.
Support in school
Many schools and colleges have young carers groups, and a member of staff specifically responsible for young carers. Some run assemblies to help everyone in school to understand what it means to be a young carer, and give their staff young carer training.
We work with Surrey schools on this, helping them improve their identification and support of young carers.
Things have improved for me lately because one of the teachers has taken an interest and asked me how things were at home. I felt better once I told him, and I know he understands and will speak up for me if I get into trouble with homework or am late.
Don’t be shy – talk to us or to your school. You can be proud of your caring role.
The Angel Award
Please encourage your school to sign up to our Angel Award scheme, which helps primary and secondary schools and sixth form colleges, to be more young carer-friendly.
Young carers in Surrey developed this scheme, to help caring pupils be recognised, feel valued and be supported at school.
Read more about the Angel Award here, or call or team 0n 0303 040 1234 (option 3) or email us [email protected]
How we help
We can support you in lots of different ways, including giving you information, advice, and events and other opportunities both to help you in your caring role, and give you a little time out from it. Find out more here.
Our help for young carers
Support for schools and education professionals
To ensure young carers receive the support they need, we work with schools across Surrey, providing advice, information and resources.
Our support includes a specialist Education Lead who works closely with schools to increase awareness of young carers.