At The Meadows Academy, we are committed to ensuring every student has a positive school experience, feels happy, and achieves their full potential.
We recognise that some students may have caring responsibilities at home. A young carer is a child who supports a family member or friend who is ill, disabled, experiencing mental health difficulties, or affected by addiction. This support can be practical, personal, or emotional, and may also include increased responsibility or worry.
We understand that young carers’ experiences vary, and all are valued.
We also recognise that being a young carer is not, in itself, a social care issue. Many families manage challenges well without external support. However, we understand there can sometimes be stigma or reluctance to share, and we are committed to ensuring families feel respected, safe, and never judged.
Our Commitments
Belonging
- Early, sensitive identification of young carers
- A safe and supportive environment
- Ensuring students feel valued and included
Becoming
- Support to thrive in education with appropriate flexibility
- Support for attendance at school
- Freely available counselling and emotional support
- Opportunities to develop hobbies and identity beyond caring
Beyond
- Support to attend enrichment activities and trips
- Encouragement to have time for themselves and prioritise wellbeing
- Support to build confidence, independence, and future aspirations
We believe it is important to be aware of young carers, even where families are managing well, so that support can be quickly in place if circumstances change.
If you think your child may be a young carer, please contact the school. We are here to listen, understand and support.
The Meadows Academy Young carers charter
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