At Woodchurch High School, we understand that some students take on extra responsibilities at home, caring for a family member who may have a physical or mental illness or disability.

Being a young carer can have a big impact on your daily life, schoolwork, and wellbeing. You might sometimes feel tired, worried, or find it hard to focus on school. We want you to know that you’re not alone, and there is help and understanding available.

What Is a Young Carer?

A young carer is someone under 18 who helps look after a family member who couldn’t manage without their support. This might mean:

• Helping with household jobs such as cooking or cleaning
• Looking after brothers or sisters
• Supporting a parent or relative with medication or personal care
• Providing emotional support when things are difficult at home

If any of this sounds like you, you might be a young carer – and you have the right to support.

How Woodchurch High School Can Help

We are here to make sure young carers are supported both emotionally and academically. In school, we can offer:

• A named Young Carers Lead – Miss Barker – someone you can talk to in confidence
• Regular check-ins to see how you’re doing
• Referrals and signposting to specialist organisations like Barnardo’s

If you’d like support or just want to talk, please speak to Miss Barker (Young Carers Lead) or Mr Joplin (Designated Safeguarding Lead).

Barnardo’s Young Carers Service

We work closely with Barnardo’s, a national charity that provides dedicated support for young carers.

Barnardo’s can offer:

• One-to-one and group support sessions
• Opportunities to meet other young carers
• Fun activities, trips and respite opportunities
• Advice for you and your family
• Help with accessing practical or emotional support

You can find out more on the Barnardo’s website:

www.barnardos.org.uk

Need Support Now?

If you need to talk to someone, you can contact:

• Barnardo’s Young Carers Service
• Childline: 0800 1111 (free, anytime)
• YoungMinds Textline: Text SHOUT to 85258

Remember

Being a young carer is something to be proud of – but you don’t have to do everything on your own.

We’re here to listen, support you, and make sure you have the same opportunities as everyone else.