Young carers and education
CymraegEnglish
Young carers are children and young people who look after or help look after a family member or friend who has an illness, a disability, or is affected by a mental health condition or addiction.
Caring impacts on the experience of young carers in schools and colleges, including their well-being, punctuality, attendance and attainment.
Schools and colleges can play a crucial role in signposting young people for support, as well as taking steps to support their learning. Some effective practices were highlighted in Estyn’s thematic review into young carers (2019).
Carers Trust Wales was funded by Welsh Government to develop case studies of how young carers are supported in schools and colleges as well as resources to support the identification, attainment, and well-being of learners with caring responsibilities.
The suite of engaging and accessible resources for primary and secondary schools includes lesson plans, and printable worksheets and factsheets. They have been developed to align with the Curriculum for Wales (Welsh Government, 2020).
Read our case studies below
Download the suite of free resources for primary and secondary schools here
Download more information and resources about supporting young carers and young adult carers
Empowering young carers in schools: Helen Jones’ work in Caerphilly Borough Carers team
Discover how Helen Jones supports young carers in schools, empowering them with peer groups, ID cards, and vital resources for their wellbeing.
Strengthening School Support for Young Carers: Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales' Approach
See how Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales empowers young carers in schools through peer support, safe spaces, and dedicated outreach teams.
Building Friendships and Resilience: Erica Stevens’ Approach to Young Carer Support in Bridgend
Discover how Erica Stevens at Bridgend Carers Centre empowers young carers with one-to-one support, group sessions, and the Young Carers ID Card
Championing Young Carers at Dŵr y Felin Comprehensive: A Model of Support and Awareness
Explore how Dŵr y Felin Comprehensive, led by Sarah Powell, champions young carers with dedicated support, awareness, and external partnerships.
Transforming Support for Young Carers: Chloe Powell’s Approach at Radyr Comprehensive School
Discover how Chloe Powell at Radyr Comprehensive empowers young carers with innovative support, awareness initiatives, and essential resources
Innovative Resources for Young Carers: Ffion Wynne Edwards’ Approach at Gwynedd Council
See how Ffion Wynne Edwards empowers Gwynedd’s young carers with dedicated support, school programs, and exclusive resources like the YCID card and app.
Our work in Wales
Discover how Carers Trust Wales is transforming support for unpaid carers across Wales. Learn about our work with Network Partners, empowering carers, influencing policies, and providing vital resources like the Short Breaks Scheme and Carers Support Fund.