Young Carers
Young Carers are children who help look after a member of the family who is sick, disabled, has mental health problems or is misusing drugs or alcohol. Census identified 178,000 Young Carers in England and Wales alone, with the average age of only 12 years old.
Their day to day responsibilities often include:
- cooking
- cleaning
- shopping
- providing nursing and personal care
- giving emotional support
With so many adult responsibilities, Young Carers often miss out on opportunities that other children have. Many struggle educationally and are often bullied for being 'different'. They can become isolated, with no relief from the pressures at home and no chance to enjoy a normal childhood. They are often afraid to ask for help as they fear letting the family down or being taken into care.
At The Bourne Academy, we have over 100 Young Carers who regularly provide such on-going care and support. Staff spend valuable time with these children and it was soon realised that these Young Carers had many adult responsibilities and often miss out on opportunities that other children take for granted - these students wanted and needed a break from home, time for themselves and to know they were not alone.
If you would like further information , please contact Mrs Jackie Beer, Education Social Worker, at the Academy or email jackie.beer@thebourneacademy.com
MYTIME Young Carers - Virtual Christmas Party
On Wednesday 16 December, MYTIME are hosting an online Christmas party for young carers and that includes all young carers at The Bourne Academy. You can read the invitation in full below:
MYTIME Young Carer, Christmas Party
Young carers who are interested in attending must also complete an online form by Friday 4 December.
Wave 105 Cash for Kids Grant Programme / FJB Group
We have received a number of generous grants from Wave 105 Cash for Kids Grant Programme, sponsored by the FJB Group. The grants have supported children through creating their own club, refreshments, outings and counselling, as well as providing Christmas gifts to the Young Carers. As a result, we will be helping these children to top up their tanks, create some childhood memories and be a child again by giving them the strength to continue to support their families in the vital way that they do, every day of their young lives.
Dorset Community Foundation
The Dorset Community Foundation has supported the Academy and our Young Carers group since 2017. The funding provided by Dorset Community Foundation has helped the Academy to create a a post for a Wellbeing Coordinator, Emotional Literacy support sessions and the running of the Young Carers Club.