Young Carers
Young Carers Support at St Peter's
Meet Our Young Carers Team
Young Carers Champion
Name: Sophie James
Role: Young Carers Champion
Contact: sophie.james@stcmat.org / 01752 667724
SLT Young Carers Lead
Name: Marc Wheeler 
Role: SLT Young Carers Lead
Contact: marc.wheeler@stcmat.org / 01752 667724
Who Are Young Carers?
Young carers are children and young people who help to look after a family member at home. This may be due to:
- A physical illness or disability
- Mental health needs
- Substance misuse
- Additional responsibilities within the home
Young carers often take on tasks that go beyond what is typical for their age.
How Staff Identify Young Carers
A student may be a young carer if they:
- Appear tired, worried, or distracted
- Are frequently late or absent
- Struggle with homework or organisation
- Mention caring responsibilities at home
- Show signs of stress or anxiety
- Take on roles or tasks normally carried out by adults
If staff have concerns, they are encouraged to speak with the Young Carers Champion for guidance.
The Impact of Caring
Caring for someone at home can affect young people in different ways, including:
- Increased worry or emotional pressure
- Reduced social time with friends
- Difficulties keeping up with schoolwork
- Tiredness or disrupted sleep
- Concerns about the person they care for
Identifying young carers early means we can offer timely and effective support.
Support Available in Plymouth
Young carers in Plymouth can access a range of local services, including:
-
Time 4 U – Support specifically for young carers
https://www.plymouthonlinedirectory.com/plymouthlocaloffer/supportforyoungcarers/time4u
-
Plymouth Young Carers Network – Activities, trips, and peer support
https://www.plymouthonlinedirectory.org/communityyouthteam/plymouthyoungcarers
The Children’s Society Young Carers Service – Specialist programmes, advocacy, and wellbeing support
- Guidance for families on emotional and practical support
- Advice linked to education, wellbeing, and attendance
Support Available in Our School
- Young Carers Group – Meeting on the first Wednesday of every month
A friendly space to talk, relax, and meet others with similar experiences. - 1:1 Check ins with the Young Carers Champion
- Support with homework, organisation, and attendance
- Access to a quiet space during the school day if needed
- Referrals to Plymouth Young Carers and The Children’s Society services
If You Think Your Child May Be a Young Carer…
Please contact our Young Carers Champion or Young Carers Lead.
Early identification means we can put the right support in place as soon as possible.