Carers Trust responds to Government guidance on school mobile phone bans

Responding to the Department for Education’s guidance on banning mobile phones in schools, Carers Trust’s CEO, Kirsty McHugh, said:

"There are at least two young carers in every classroom and it’s crucial they’re still able to access a mobile phone because of their caring role. Their phone is a vital connection to the person they look after outside of school. Without them, young carers would struggle to find out if there is an emergency at home, check up on their loved ones at break times or get updates on important tests.

“It is good to see the Government’s new guidance for schools makes some allowance for young carers. However, it’s essential that all schools ensure they have a policy which clearly allows young carers to access their phone when they need to. Carers Trust research shows 40% of young carers don’t get enough help at school to balance education and caring. It’s vital that mobile phone bans don’t make their lives even harder.”