Young Carers

At East Point Academy we believe that all children and young people have the right to an education, regardless of what is happening at home.

When a young person looks after someone in their family who has a serious illness, disability or substance misuse problem, he or she may need a little extra support to help him or her get the most out of school. Our young carers policy says how we will help any pupil who helps to look after someone at home.

Our School:

• Has a member of staff with special responsibility for young carers and lets all new pupils know who they are and what they can do to help.
• Runs an assembly on the challenges faced by young carers for all year groups.
• Can put young carers in touch with the local Young Carers Service. We can also put families in touch with other support services.
• Is accessible to parents who have mobility and communication difficulties and involves them in parents’ evenings.
• Respects young carers’ right to privacy and will only share information about you and your family with people who need to know to help you.
• Will consider alternatives if a young carer is unable to attend out-of-school activities e.g. detention, sports coaching, concerts, due to their caring role.
• Allows young carers to telephone home during breaks and lunchtimes if required.
• Complies with the Disability Discrimination Act by offering disabled parents support to get their children into school.

For more information and advice please see the Suffolk Young Carers website.