St Mark's have achieved bronze, silver and gold Young carers awards due to their ongoing commitment to support Young Carers at St Mark's Primary. 

What is a Young Carer? 

A young carer, is a child that is living with another person in their household, who has a physical or mental health condition. This could be due to disability, SEN, or an addiction. They do not necessarily have to be doing any physical caring as the emotional strain can be just as wearing for them. 

  Young Carers might:

• Help with cooking, cleaning, or shopping
• Look after younger siblings
• Provide emotional support

How we support Young Carers

At St Mark's, we are committed to supporting young carers. We offer:

• Pastoral support and check-ins
• Several meet ups throughout each term
• A buddy system 
• A trip to the beach at the end of the school year (KS2 ONLY)
• Flexible deadlines/homework
• Provide a safe and understanding environment

Working with families

We understand every family is different. We work closely with parents/carers to ensure children feel supported both at home and school. We also offer guidance and signposting to helpful services. 

North Somerset Young Carers

At Young Carers North Somerset, the children attend regular sessions of counselling, therapeutic play, school holiday outings and events all paid for by the service. They provide food at every session and will arrange transport if needed for families.

Young Carers find this service invaluable, as they access  respite from siblings with challenging behaviours, or parents with mental illness or from caring for another person, for example, and just 'to be themselves' for a few hours per week.

For more information please see the North Somerset Young Carers website where you will also find a referral form: 

Alliance Homes: Support for young and young adult carers | Alliance Living SupportPlease ask to speak to your child's teacher or Miss Coldwell (Young Carers Lead) for more information regarding support at school or help to access support from North Somerset Young Carers.