Supporting Young Carers at Manor Drive Primary Academy 

At Manor Drive Primary Academy, we are committed to supporting Young Carers. 

We understand the unique challenges they may face and strive to provide a supportive environment where they can thrive academically, socially and emotionally. 

Young Carers are young people under the age of 18 who provide care, unpaid, for a family member with an illness or disability, mental health condition or are dependent on alcohol or drugs.  

Our Support Includes: 

Young Carers Group (commencing Summer Term 2025): A fun, safe space for Young Carers to connect with each other, share experiences and access additional support. 

1:1 Support: Our dedicated Young Carers Champion, Carly Pearson, provides personalised support and guidance to Young Carers and their families. 

Flexible Support: We offer homework extensions and attendance allowances to accommodate the responsibilities of young carers. 

Staff Training: Our staff members undergo additional training to better understand and support the needs of young carers. 

Assemblies and Events: Regular assemblies and events to raise awareness and celebrate the contributions of young carers. 

Additional Resources: In addition to our school-specific offer, we can also refer to external organisations, such as Centre 33, for Young Carers Needs Assessments. Their website can be found here: Caring - Centre 33 

Testimonials: 

‘This school really deserves the praise with everything they do to support my son and us as a family. I find the school extremely welcoming and supportive, from the SENCO, Headteacher and Reception staff team! They have been an absolute blessing to us as a family; nothing has ever been too much for the school, they have worked hard to understand the challenges within our family and for my son and have helped us all so much. I experience mental health issues, and my son helps a lot at home, with jobs around the house and by playing with his younger brother who has autism. Any school meetings I need to attend are held online when I am struggling to leave the house. My son is always so happy and excited to go into school! Mrs Marks should be proud of running an inclusive school and the acceptance of children’s different abilities is the most beautiful thing I could possibly witness as a parent.’ 

Mum of Young Carer (boy – aged 5)  

‘When it was first suggested that my daughter was referred for support, I felt terrified and that I was failing at being a Mum. Actually, it’s the best thing I’ve done and is actually a massive relief as it helps my daughter, gives her the support she needs, and she knows she is not on her own in being a Young Carer. I wish I did it sooner! To all parents, if your child is a Young Carer do not be scared of coming forward…you are not a bad parent, you just want the best for your child and you are doing a great job – never forget it! The school gives my daughter so much support through some unsettling times. She witnesses a lot at home due to my epilepsy and I’m extremely grateful for the support she gets.'

Mum of Young Carer (girl – aged 6) 

At Manor Drive Primary Academy, we are proud to be Young Carer aware. Our goal is to ensure that every Young Carer feels supported, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential. 

For more information or to access our support services, please contact Ms. Carly Pearson (Young Carers Champion) via the school office on 01733 598001 or at office@manordriveprimary.org.uk. Any information shared will be dealt with sensitively and the views of the pupil will always be taken into account.