Young Carers

What is a Young Carer?

A young carer is a child or young adult who, without payment, provides help and support to a friend, neighbour or family member who could not manage otherwise because of an illness, frailty or disability. Very often, people do not recognise themselves as 'carers'; they are just relatives, friends or neighbours who find themselves in a caring situation, sometimes suddenly, sometimes gradually, and simply get on with what needs to be done.

A carer may not always live with the person they care for, but their help may be essential in enabling that person to go on living independently.

It can help to know that you are a carer; it is a way of recognising that what you are doing is a very important job. Caring can sometimes be demanding, both physically and emotionally. It may help to know that your work is recognised by others, and that there are people and services available to help support you in your role.

Keep an eye on the Young Carers noticeboard near the main hall for any Young Carer group events / updates.

What might a Young Carer do?

Practical tasks, such as cooking, housework and shopping.
Physical care, such as helping someone out of bed.
Offer emotional support, such as talking to someone who is distressed.
Personal care, such as helping someone dress.
Managing the family budget and collecting prescriptions.
Helping to give medicine.
Helping someone communicate.
Looking after siblings.

Young Carers Gold Award

In May 2015, Stockport Academy became the first school in the country to achieve the Gold Award from the Young Carers in Schools Programme. This award recognises the standard of support we offer young carers in terms of identification, raising awareness, catering to their individual needs and celebrating their achievements.

Contacts

Ms A Underwood - Young Carers Operational Lead

Michelle - School Counsellor

Signpost Young Carers

Signpost Young Carers Service works with young people aged 6 – 25 years and who live in the Stockport area.

Under new legislation, young carers now have the right to an assessment of their needs. As part of our support we will talk to you about your caring role and what support may help you and your family. We can offer age appropriate advice, support and activities to help make your life a little bit easier and give you a break from your caring role.

Most importantly, we can also help to connect you to other people your age who are in the same boat and understand better than anyone exactly what you're going through.