Young Carers JSNA

What is being done and why

Nationally

Young Carers in Schools (YCiS) – National Programme

A free England‑wide initiative run jointly by Carers Trust and The Children’s Society. It supports schools to identify and support young carers through:

  • A 10‑step framework for whole‑school identification and support.
  • Staff training, templates, tools, and professional development.
  • The Young Carers in Schools Award, recognising schools that meet young carers’ needs.
  • Proven impact—schools with the YCiS Award identify three times more young carers and report improved wellbeing and attendance.

NHS-Related Support Services (National Offer)

Local NHS and GP practices are guided to provide accessible appointments, mental health support, and timely referrals to local young carer services under NHS England’s young carer guidance.

Young carers may also access school‑based support and counselling through NHS‑linked school health practitioners.

NIHR Research on Effective Support Services

NIHR research identifies which services young carers value:

  • Respite, fun activities, mental health support, and flexible education arrangements.
  • Trusted adults to talk to and early, clear, accessible information about support.
  • Support for the cared‑for person, reducing the young carer’s burden.

National Legislative and Strategic Frameworks

National duties under the Children and Families Act 2014 and Care Act 2014 require local authorities to identify and support young carers, including through early help and whole‑family approaches.

The Children’s Society provides toolkits (e.g., Whole Family Pathway, Young Adult Carers Pathway) widely used by councils and schools.

Ofsted Expectations – National Inspection Framework

Ofsted’s 2025 ILACS updates require local authorities to demonstrate:

  • Effective identification of young carers.
  • A comprehensive support offer, including groups, one‑to‑one support, short breaks, and commissioned services.
  • Family hubs offering holistic early help.

Regionally

Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust – Regional Young Carer Support

Supports young carers across County Durham, Darlington, Teesside, North Yorkshire, York & Selby, including:

  • Help to contact someone trusted (e.g., teacher or health professional).
  • Signposting to local young carer services.
  • Regional young carer service hubs including:
  • The Bridge Young Carers Service (County Durham)
  • Darlington Young Carers Service (5–25 years)

Local Authorities Ofsted Findings

Ofsted reports highlight strong regional practice including:

  • Tailored assessments and early help through family hubs.
  • Commissioned services offering short breaks, recreational activities, therapeutic support, and group programmes.
  • Youth engagement workers providing timely and coordinated support.

Locally

Hartlepool Schools & YCiS Adoption

Many Hartlepool schools participate in the national Young Carers in Schools programme.

Access to Regional Services

  • The Bridge Young Carers Service (County Durham)
  • Darlington Young Carers Service