At West Byfleet Infant School, we are aware that some of our pupils are young carers.  

By definition, a young carer is someone under 18 who is caring, unpaid, for a family member or friend 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.

Some tasks children may engage in: practical tasks (e.g. cooking, housework and shopping); physical care (lifting or helping someone use the stairs); personal care (dressing, washing, helping with toilet needs; managing the family budget (collecting benefits and prescriptions); managing medication; looking after younger siblings; helping someone to communicate with others both inside the home and in the wider community.

Research suggests there are at least 700,000 young carers in the UK, with an estimated 14,000 young carers in Surrey, but many more 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. West Byfleet Infant School is committed to ensuring that all pupils who are Young Carers are identified and supported effectively.

Our Pastoral Support Worker (PSW) is also our Young Carers leader. Her role is to help identify and co-ordinate support for our Young Carers.

We run a Young Carers activity each half term. We aim to have fun and provide a friendly, nurturing and safe space where Young Carers from across the school meet and bond together.

If you think your child might be a young carer, please email cclark@wbis.org.uk.  

Any information that is given to us will be treated sensitively and no information will be shared without your knowledge.

If you would like further information, please take some time exploring Action for Carers.