We are aware that some of our pupils are young carers. A young carer is someone under 18 who is caring unpaid for a family member or a friend who is ill, disabled, or has a mental health problem or an addiction.

They often take on practical and/or emotional caring responsibilities that would normally be expected of an adult. Research suggests there are at least 800,000 young carers in the UK but many do not realise they are a young carer.

We know that young carers may need a little extra support to enjoy and do well at school. We are committed to ensuring that all pupils who are young carers are identified, and supported effectively.

As a college we have putare working on an action plan to support young carers and are developing our support packages over the next year.This will include a lunchtime club, information passports, 1-1 support sessions,  student well-being support and links with Kernow young carers.

If you are a young carer or think you might be

Visit Cornwall Young Carers Website: Young Carers in Cornwall — Cornwall Carers Service

Contact the Kernow Young Carers team via phone: 01736 756655.

Students can also self-refer via the website:

Young Carers in Cornwall — Cornwall Carers Service

Where do I go if I need to ask questions?

Contact the following staff if help and support is needed:

• Mrs E Martin, Young Carers Operational Lead 

  emartin@helston.tpacademytrust.org

Helston Community College wins award for young carer support

Helston Community College has been given a Silver award for their work to make sure students don’t miss out on an education because they are young carers.

The Young Carers in Schools programme helps primary and secondary schools improve outcomes for young carers and celebrates good practice through the Young Carers in Schools Award.

Young carers are responsible for emotional, practical or physical care for a parent, sibling or other family member who has a physical disability, mental health issue or substance misuse issue. The 2021 Census statistics revealed that there are just over 120,000 young carers in England, but research reveals that this is just the tip of the iceberg. The true figure could be closer to 800,000 young carers in England, equivalent to one in 5 secondary aged school children many of whom are unrecognised and unsupported. 

“To achieve their Silver Award Helston Community College has demonstrated that it supports young carers in many ways, including awareness raising with pupils and staff, and by building links within the local community. Young carers are consulted with, and vital information is made available to pupils and families, letting them know where to go for help.”

The programme is open to all schools in England and to sign up schools just need to visitwww.youngcarersinschools.com