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5
WQ.73/2018
WRITTEN QUESTION TO THE MINISTER FOR EDUCATION BY DEPUTY M.R. HIGGINS OF ST. HELIER
ANSWER TO BE TABLED ON MONDAY 9th APRIL 2018
Question
Will the Minister explain what data, if any, his Department holds regarding the number of carers in the Island who are children; and will he also explain what work, if any, has been done to confirm how their education is affected and what provisions he has, or proposes to have, in place to assist them?
Answer
The Education Department's main point for contact with young carers is through the My Time' project run by the Jersey Youth Service. There are two sessions a week, one for young people aged eight to 11 years and one for 12 to 18 year olds.
The Education Department does not hold data about young carers other than that provided by the 2014 Picture of Health survey, in which 23% of young people surveyed identified as performing the tasks of a carer. This survey of young people has just been repeated and results are awaited.
The My Time' project is run by a 0.5 FTE Youth Worker funded from the Jersey Independent Care Inquiry response money. My Time aims to:
- Provide opportunities for young carers to take a break from their caring responsibilities and spend time with other young carers to share experiences.
- Provide opportunities for young carers to learn more about their relative's illness or disability.
- Liaise with schools so that teachers can better support their students.
- Provide advice and emotional support through the YES project counselling and drop-in service.
- Support young carers to use local services such as sports clubs, support groups, and health centres.
- Initiate Early Help to support the family.
Not all young people realise that they are taking on a role of a young carer, particularly if their responsibilities are long-term or habitual. Unless they disclose their circumstances, their school might not be aware of the issues. However, if students are known as young carers and have additional educational needs then a range of existing support mechanisms will be utilised in schools. There would also be an opportunity for co-ordinated multi-agency support, which could, for example involve the school's Family Support Worker or other professionals as required.