CHILDREN who help to care for loved ones have been recognised for their selfless efforts, thanks to a pioneering scheme adopted by a rural school in Teesdale.
A group was set up at Bowes Hutchinson’s Primary for “young carers” who attend the school, providing support and activities.
The aim is to show them that they’re not alone.
Now a support organisation, Family Action – The Bridge Young Carers, has awarded the school with a neighbourhood charter, which showcases the school’s commitment to helping “young carers” .
Young carers are children who help look after anyone from a parent to a sibling by doing tasks such as cleaning, cooking, keeping the person safe or just watching out for them.
Pupils Cameron and his sister Aimee, along with classmates Darcey and Daisy, who all look after someone special at home, proudly picked up the certificate at an assembly.
Cameron, ten, helps care for big sister Katie, 16, who has autism and suffers from seizures.
Cameron said: “Me and my family have to look after my sister Katie. I can see when she is having a seizure and I know what to do.”
His mum, Susan Foster, added: “All my five children have autism. Her brothers and sisters are very good at spotting the signs and Cameron can put her in a recovery position. Supporting young careers is important, especially in a rural area which doesn’t have the same services as bigger towns and cities.
“Having this in school gives young carers a voice and they can see it’s not just them – other people go through this too. They know they are different from their peers. It can be challenging and frustrating,” she added.
“But this teaches them that it’s okay to feel that it’s not fair.”
Darcey helps to look after her brother, Daniel, 11, who has learning difficulties.
Mum Michelle Greaves said the young carers group was set up at Bowes school through Darcey’s experiences.
Catherine Taylor, from Family Action – The Bridge Young Carers, praised the work being done, which includes assemblies, fundraising events and group sessions.
“Our organisation supports young carers in County Durham and this group at Bowes school is massively important,” she said.
