A CARERS’ group has sent packs to schools in North Yorkshire to help teachers identify and support students who care for a sick or disabled relative.

Hambleton and Richmond Carers Centre chose Young Carers Awareness Day on January 25, to distribute the information pack to the seven secondary schools in the districts.

Helen Hunter, chief executive of the H&R Carers Centre, based in Northallerton, said the idea of the schools pack was not just to make teachers aware there may be young carers in their classroom, but the pupils too.

“Back in 2010, a BBC survey estimated there were 700,000 young carers in the UK which works out at two per class,” said Helen.

“The aim of our schools packs is to create a more accepting and understanding environment where young carers feel safe and confident to share their stories and where they are accepted for who they are and be supported by their peers.”

Included in its contents are ideas for activities and lessons such as a quiz, games and role play – all designed to encourage teachers to raise awareness of the responsibilities and challenges that a young carer might face and how these can impact on their studies and social life.

Helen Hunter said schools were vital in identifying young carers and then in supporting their well-being and development.

“There are often multiple signs that a child or young person may be a young carer. For example, displaying poor behaviour in the classroom,” she said.

“We need schools to train all staff to recognise these signs and to be able to ask the right questions.

"They also need to designate someone who staff can turn to if they have identified a Young Carer and who can then contact the right agencies – including ourselves – for help in obtaining the right support for the child, both inside and outside the school.”