Young Carers

Young carers as defined by the Richmond Carers Centre are children and young people under the age of 18 who are taking on practical and/or emotional caring responsibilities normally expected of an adult, and can include anything from cooking, shopping and housework to administering medication, assisting with personal care such as washing or dressing, interpreting, physical support such as lifting and even emotional support or looking after younger siblings.

At Bedelsford School, we are committed to supporting every member of our school community, including young carers. We recognise that, because many of our students have complex individual needs, brothers, sisters and other family members may sometimes take on caring responsibilities at home.

Even if these caring responsibilities seem small, they can still have an impact on a young person’s wellbeing, education and social life. We want young carers and their families to know that support is available.

We can help by:

  • Providing information about local young carers’ services.
  • Signposting families to advice and support.
  • Sharing opportunities for fun activities, trips and events specifically for young carers.
  • Ensuring young carers feel recognised, valued and supported.

If you think your child may be a young carer, or if you would like more information about the support available, please speak to a member of the safeguarding team.

Email: Safeguarding-BFS@bedelsfordschool.org

Support Services for Young Carers

The Mix

The Mix

The Mix provides free confidential advice and support for anyone under 25. Contact by phone, email, text or webchat. They will discuss with you your situation (you need only say as much as you feel comfortable saying), what kind of support you would like and how (e.g. by phone), options available to you and how you would like to proceed with any further help.

Merton

Merton Young Carers

Support for Young Carers in the London Borough of Merton

London borough of richmond

Richmond Council Youth Service

Opportunities for young people in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames.

Richmond Carers Centre

Richmond Carers Centre

Richmond Carers Centre provides support for young carers in the local area of Richmond

YCP Young Carers

Kingston Young Carers Project

Part of the Kingston Carers’ Network the Young Carers’ Project is a charity dedicated to supporting children and young people in the borough of Kingston-upon-Thames, ages 5-18 who have caring responsibilities for someone at home.

Sibs

Sibs

Sibs exists to support people who grow up with or have grown up with a disabled brother or sister.

Carers Trust

Carers Trust

Carers Trust works to transform the lives of unpaid carers, including young carers. They provide information, advice and support, helping young people access the services they need.

The Children's Society

The Children's Society

Their include service provides help and support to young carers, families and those who work with young carers.