A Young Carer is a child aged 5-18yrs who provides a form of care, supervision or emotional support, usually to a family member who may have: A long-term health condition, illness or frailty Physical Disability Neurodevelopmental Disorder Poor mental health Substance misuse issue Being a Young Carer can happen to any child at any time, maybe even over night due to an accident or sudden illness. For some it may be because of a gradual condition but for others it might be as they reach a certain age, need to carry out additional chores or provide support to siblings if their parent/guardian’s health means they’re unable.

Whatever the circumstances might be, this can affect the everyday life and wellbeing of a child and the family as a whole and additional support may be needed to be put in place.

We understand that thinking of your child as a ‘carer’ can be difficult to get your head around, especially if you, the parent or guardian are the primary caregiver to your children and family. Quite often however, we see amazing parent’s burnout trying to hold everything together themselves, so accepting support from additional services is NOT a failing and will have a positive impact on your child and family.

Our school's Young Carer Champion is Mrs R Cooper, she can be contacted via email at rcooper@st-edmunds.com or 01304 201551 option 4. Please contact her for any help and advice on registering your child as a young carer or any support needed.

We are passionate at St Edmund's in supporting our young carers. We will be organising breakfast and treats for our young carers over the coming weeks. 

Kent Young Carers - How to Register and Further Information