The governors and all members of staff at St Oswald’s CE Primary School accept responsibility for all pupils including those acting as young carers within their home and are committed to meeting their pastoral, social and academic needs within the school environment.
A young carer is someone under 18 who may be caring for a family member who is ill, frail, disabled or has mental health or addiction problems. They often take on practical and/or emotional caring responsibilities that would normally be expected of an adult. Research suggests there are at least 700,000 young carers in the UK but many do not realise they are a young carer.
As a school, we work alongside York Young Carers to support any children identified as being a young carers.
Who is our young carers champion?
Young Carers Champion
Is my child eligible?
Does your child take on extra responsibilities at home because a family member is disabled, has a long-term illness, experiences mental ill health, or struggles with substance misuse?
Does your child sometimes miss out on after-school activities or weekend opportunities because they are needed to help at home?
Does your child worry about the wellbeing, behaviour, or safety of a relative, and feel anxious about leaving them alone?
Do they feel concerned about what might happen to your family if they talk to someone about these worries?
If so, your child may be a young carer.
Please contact the school office or the Young Carers champion for further information about how to enrol.
Why should I sign my child up?
Recognising your child as a young carer by registering with York Carers Centre is a meaningful step that protects their well-being, unlocks much-needed support, and affirms both their efforts and their right to a childhood.
York Carers Centre supports young carers aged 5 to 18 through a tailored initial assessment that helps understand each child’s unique caring role and emotional and educational needs. Enrolment brings access to youth clubs that offer age-appropriate fun, baking, crafting and social time. This can be an essential break from caregiving There are also regular opportunities for visits, giving young carers a chance to relax, explore, and connect with peers who truly understand their situation.
In addition to the York Carers Centre, St Oswald’s works closely with the team to fully support your child and understand what their barriers are that we can support with. There will be an understanding that, if times are difficult, support and adjustments will be needed without any judgement.
Together, these supports give your child the recognition, emotional relief, social connection and reassurance that they are safe, supported and not alone.