Mrs Harris has developed links with Warmley Park School- staff and pupils have come to us and led a music session for your young carers and we have been to them for a pottery workshop. This term we have designed our t-shirts and  love coming to The Hive for our sessions so we can all chat and relax. 

STOP PRESS!

Barley Close is the first school in South Gloucestershire to gain the Silver award from the Children's society for our work with our Young Carers. We gained Bronze accreditation in February 2020 and have worked very hard to gain Silver by January 2021. We are thrilled that our hard work has been recognised in a year, where children have had a tricky time being in and out of school and we have had to think creatively to tailor our support to lockdown. A massive thank you to  all the adults who work hard everyday to support our young carers and the Funtime Players group.

We also received special recognition from the Children's Society for our support for young carers during covid.

Young Carers at Barley Close

A young carer is someone under 18 who helps look after someone in their family who is ill, disabled or misuses drugs or alcohol. At Barley Close we aim to support children in school who take on responsibility for others at home so that they can enjoy school, have the same experiences and achieve alongside their peers. Sharon Harris, family support, can provide information on how to refer your child to  Bristol and South Glos Young Carers Service and  can do this with you if you wish.

In school we have a support group who meet fortnightly (Busy B's) on Wednesday lunchtimes. During the group they meet other children who have a similar role at home to them, time to chat and take part in lots of fun activities together. Children can choose if they attend each week.  Should they need someone to talk to during the school day and at playtime, Mrs Harris and Mrs Masters run the Busy B's group, do 'check in' frequently on all group members.

Links and support for Young Carers

There are many people who can offer support and advice for Young Carers.

School nurses: Our school nursing service is on hand to offer advice on Sleep, diet, worries and health (including mental health). We can refer you for support or support you with meetings. Please email Mrs Williams if you require any help accessing the school nursing service.

Young Carers Bristol and South Glos: This is an organisation dedicated to supporting young carers locally. They are able to offer a variety of support depending on needs including group and one to one activities when necessary. Mrs Harris can refer you to their service, or you can self refer your child via the website (see link below). Children involved in Young Carers experience ongoing support throughout as they grow up and change schools and get to know other Young Carers in the local area. They have a variety of activity and social groups to suit different children and age groups and also have fun daytrips! Please contact Young Carers and see the weblink below for further information.