A school has been praised for supporting children who care for family members
All Saints School in Lessingham has been recognised for its work with a prestigious award, after winning the Young Carers in Schools award for its efforts to identify and support young carers.
These are children under 18 who care for a family member who could not cope without their help due to illness, disability, mental health issues, or addiction.
Samantha Dangerfield, headteacher, said: "We’re absolutely thrilled to have received the Young Carers in Schools Award.
"It means a great deal to us because it recognises the work we do every day to support all of our students, including those who have caring responsibilities at home.
"This award belongs to our whole school community, and we’ll continue working hard to make sure every young carer here feels valued and able to succeed."
All Saints offers regular support to young carers through weekly group sessions, homework help, and drop-in opportunities with a dedicated staff member.
Students also take part in specially organised school trips.
Anastasia, aged 12, said: “It helps me to talk about how I am feeling, I know that someone is there to help. I can also look after my friends if they are stressed or upset.”
Molly, aged 14, said: “I like how I know it’s coming, so I know I’ll get a small break from lesson, also if I’m worried about something, I can just stay behind and ask, rather than go out of my way which I struggle with sometimes”
Gemma Montgomery, wellbeing mentor and lead for young carers at the school, said: "I feel incredibly proud that our school has achieved the Young Carers in School Award."
The award is part of the Young Carers in School programme, run by The Children’s Society and Carers Trust.
The scheme provides tools and guidance to help schools identify and support young carers.
Research from Carers Trust shows 40 per cent of young carers feel unsupported in balancing their education and caring responsibilities.
