Young Carers

Our Commitment to Young Carers

At Tavistock College, we recognise the enormous contribution young carers make to their families — and the challenges they may face as a result. We are committed to ensuring that every young carer in our community feels understood, supported, and able to thrive.

We work hard to remove barriers to learning, promote wellbeing, and provide a safe and supportive environment where young carers can flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. Our staff are trained to identify young carers early and offer personalised support that makes a meaningful difference.

• a disability
• a long‑term or chronic illness
• a mental health condition
• a substance dependency
• age‑related needs

Caring responsibilities might include:

• helping with household chores
• supporting siblings
• providing emotional support
• assisting with personal care
• managing household routines

Every young carer’s experience is unique — and all young carers deserve support.

You can tell us at any time using our confidential online form:

Young Carers Form

Support We Offer at Tavistock College

We want every young carer to feel seen, understood, and supported. Our offer includes:

A trusted adult who is available to talk and provide regular encouragement and support.

• Extensions or alternative deadlines when needed
• Catch‑up opportunities
• Accessible and adapted lesson resources
• Understanding if home responsibilities make learning harder at times

A safe, welcoming space to relax, meet other young carers, take part in wellbeing activities, and feel part of a supportive community.

A peer buddy to help with confidence, friendships, and transition periods (such as starting Year 7 or changing classes).

Understanding that caring responsibilities may affect attendance — supportive approaches are used before sanctions.

Help with uniform, equipment, resources and school trips for families experiencing financial hardship.

We work closely with specialist organisations to ensure families receive the right help at the right time.

Useful Young Carer Support Links

• Westbank / Devon Carers
  https://www.westbank.org.uk/ 
• Carers Trust (Young Carers Support)
  https://www.carers.org/getting-support-if-you-are-a-young-carer-or-young-adult-carer 
• The Children’s Society – Young Carers Support
  https://www.childrenssociety.org.uk/what-we-do/our-work/supporting-young-carers 
• Action for Children – Young Carers
  https://www.actionforchildren.org.uk/blog/young-carers-who-are-they-and-how-are-they-impacted/
  

Who to contact

If you’re a student, parent or carer and would like support — or even if you’re unsure whether your situation means you are a young carer — please get in touch.

You can also speak to your:

• Tutor
• Head of Year
• Any trusted adult in school

All conversations are handled sensitively and in confidence.