At Lawford Mead, we know that factors outside of school can have a big impact on pupil wellbeing and their school experience, particularly if a pupil is helping to care for a family member who is ill, disabled, or has a mental health challenges or an addiction.

Pupils can be ‘young carers’ for lots of different reasons:

• They might be providing physical support to a parent with a physical illness such as fibromyalgia or ME, such as cooking, fetching things or helping with things like putting shoes on or doing the shopping
• They might be helping a parent with a disability who needs help with more personal tasks such as getting dressed, bathing or changing dressings
• Or it could be more emotional support – like taking responsibility for young siblings whilst parents attend health appointments, or checking that a parent with depression/anxiety is ok.

If you think that any of the above applies to your child, and that they might possibly be a ‘young carer’, please come and speak to one of the school’s safeguarding leads to ask for advice and discuss what support might be available if needed. For more information, visit:

 Young carers | Essex County Council