Support for Young Carers in ACT Public Schools
The Education Directorate and schools are committed to recognising and supporting carers, and responding to the needs of carers, their rights, choices and opportunities to participate fully in all areas of life. As part of this commitment ACT Public Schools will ensure young carers are well supported in order to attend school, remained engaged in learning, and have an educational experience alongside their peers.
A whole school approach to supporting the needs of young carers will impact positively on their ability to learn and their learning into the future. It is important all school staff are aware of the challenges which young carers face and the possible impact on their learning and wellbeing.
Many young carers say that they enjoy their caring role. However, we know that young carers who are not supported often face significant barriers to their own physical and mental health and wellbeing.
The following resources are designed to assist schools to support young carers to ensure they have opportunities to continue to learn and reach their potential.
Helpful Resources for schools
- Factsheet for schools – supporting students who are young carers
(294kb) - ACT Carers Strategy 2018-2028
- ‘Doing the right thing well in schools’ is a good practice guide for working with young carers in schools developed by the Scottish Young Carers Services Alliance
A Guide for teachers
Helpful resources for young carers
Carers ACT
Helpful information and supports are available at Carers ACT, including information on advocacy supports. To find out more go to:
- https://www.carersact.org.au/young-carer-supports/
- https://www.carersact.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Young-Carers-Toolkit.pdf
Carer Gateway
The Carer Gateway has lots of resources and advice about what supports are available for carers, including courses, phone based counselling and financial support. Go to www.carergateway.gov.au/ to find out more.
If you’re unsure if you are a carer, this video may help.
The Young Carers Network
The Young Carers Network is a place for young carers to learn about support services, access resources and share their experiences. They also administer the Young Carer Bursary Program that supports young carers to continue with their education with a grant of up to $3,000 each year. Go to www.youngcarersnetwork.com.au/ to find out more.
More Information
For further information please email Student Wellbeing at ETDStudentWellbeing@act.gov.au