A young carer is someone who is under 18 years of age (or who has reached 18 and is still a pupil at school) who provides or intends to provide care for another individual. A number of young carers do not always tell us about their situation or even wish to be identified, but the estimate for East Lothian is that one in ten young people are carers.
Young carers undertake a number of tasks for people they live with and look after. They are often left alone to do things like washing, cooking, shopping, paying bills, collecting medication or helping to look after a younger brother or sister. This means that they might not have as much time to complete work at home which has an ongoing effect on progress and learning or attend clubs and after school activities, therefore missing out on the social aspects of school.
We want young carers at DGS to enjoy school and to feel included in our positive community. Please let guidance teachers know if there are difficulties meeting deadlines with work, arriving on time or any other issue which affect a young person.
Young carers are entitled to an assessment which can help them to get additional support from the council and not just in school. Please contact Guidance to discuss further.
