Young Carers JSNA

Evidence base

This section provides links and a brief summary of a robust evidence base. For example, peer-reviewd studies, systematic revies, evaluations of interventions and best practice guidelines from national sources.

Issue number 1 = highest priority
1	Source	Action for Carers
	Title incl. web link	Identifying hidden and new young carers: A tool for education providers Young-Carers-Identification-Guide-a-tool-for-education-staff.pdf
	Summary	Key recommendations for increasing identification in schools and colleges: Asking simple, non-intrusive questions in everyday conversations, wellbeing surveys, and admission forms to spot hidden caring roles. Recognising signs such as changes in behaviour, attendance, and wellbeing. Providing follow‑up opportunities after assemblies or awareness events, as young carers often do not self-identify publicly. Understanding additional pressures since COVID‑19 (increased caring roles).
	Source	NHS England
	Title incl. web link	Supporting young carers – guidance for GPs and staff NHS England » Supporting young carers – guidance for GPs and staff
	Summary	NHS England provides explicit guidance aimed at improving young‑carer identification in primary care. Key recommendations include: Proactive identification in general practice as part of the NHS Long Term Plan. Recognising young carers’ individual needs, avoiding assumptions and not relying on them to interpret for the cared-for person. Adapting appointment systems (e.g., after-school appointments) to make contact easier. Timely referrals to local support services and social prescribing pathways. Resources developed with young carers, including top tips and awareness-raising materials.
2	Source	House of Commons Library
	Title incl. web link	Young Carers in education CBP-10018.pdf
	Summary	A government research briefing summarises challenges and available support: Identifies that educational experiences of young carers vary, and transitions (e.g., to college or university) can be particularly difficult. Highlights support options such as the Young Carers in Schools Programme, Pupil Premium mechanisms, and further/higher education support systems. Emphasises the importance of identification and data collection by schools to ensure needs are recognised early.
	Source	Carers Trust
	Title incl. web link	New Ofsted Framework: How schools and colleges can support Young Carers Ofsted-Guidance.pdf
	Summary	Provides a 5-step guide to supporting Young Carers Identify a Young Carers lead – a member of staff with dedicated time to coordinate support with access to training and Senior Leadership support. Raise awareness across the school – with pupils and through staff training. Identify Young Carers – add questions about caring responsibilities to enrolment forms and data collection. Create safe opportunities for pupils/families to share information. Record and Monitor – Flag Young Carers, monitor attendance and attainment and use data to implement early support and intervention. Provide flexible support – lunchtime clubs & trips, wellbeing programmes & counselling or peer support, extend homework deadlines or provide academic support, offer lunchtime homework support to avoid conflict with caring duties and liase with external agencies to coordinate support.
3	Source	National Institute for Health and Care Research
	Title incl. web link	What support do young carers find helpful? What support do young carers find helpful?
	Summary	Young carers need accessible information about services, clear expectations, and user‑friendly support pathways. Helpful services include: Mental health support Respite, breaks, and fun activities Flexible education options Trusted adults who listen without judgement Support for the person they care for (reducing the young carer’s burden) Young carers value choice, involvement, and transparent decision‑making in their support plans.
	Source	Carers UK
	Title incl. web link	Support for young carers Support for young carers \| Carers UK
	Summary	Young Carers are entitled to a Young Carer’s Assessment which identifies needs and support options. Support helps young carers pursue education, training, social activities and wellbeing.