Dorset Council
Dorset Council
11/03/2023 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/03/2023 09:16
The Blandford School and MYTIME, pioneering a new approach to supporting young carers
Young carers in Blandford Forum are being provided a nurturing educational space, thanks to a new initiative by The Blandford School in collaboration with MYTIME Young Carers.
The school has established a partnership with the charitable organisation MYTIME Young Carers, dedicated to championing the rights of young carers, ensuring they receive the necessary support, opportunities, and friendships.
In 2021, The Blandford School was aware of only 3-4 students with significant caregiving responsibilities within its entire student body. However, after working with MYTIME and conducting a more detailed school survey, the school has now identified 40 children who bear substantial caring duties, which works out as 4% of the total student population.
Consequently, The Blandford School decided to appoint Dan Johnson (PE Teacher and Student Achievement Champion) as a champion for the young carers.
Dan is supported by a voluntary group of staff, through this partnership young carers benefit from a range of activities including one-on-one sessions, special assemblies, group sessions, and outings.
Blandford isn't alone in recognising the need for increased awareness and support for young carers, discussions are currently underway in the House of Commons concerning this.
Consequently, both The Blandford School and MYTIME have been featured in an interview with ITN, shedding light on their collaborative approach to student support. Featured at the end of October on ITV 1's Tonight Show.
Sally Wilson, the Head Teacher of The Blandford School, said: "We are extremely pleased ITN and MYTIME approached us to be involved in the programme and delighted the extraordinary work of our young carers is being recognised.
"Our partnership with MYTIME is pivotal and I believe their nationwide campaign to raise the profile of Young Carers will have a lasting impact.
"The day ITN were in school was enormous fun, it was great to see 'behind the scenes' in terms of how a documentary is made and wonderful for our work to be recognised as a model of good practice."
Rhianna, a young carer in year 10, who was interviewed as part of the documentary said: "I really enjoyed the experience. I think it's important that Young Carers get the recognition and support they deserve because it's not always easy.
"I'm glad that I was able to spread the message about Young Carers so maybe more can be identified. It was exciting to work with ITN and be part of a real TV programme. MYTIME have been really supportive and I'm really glad that the school and MYTIME are working so well together to support me and others."
Cllr Byron Quayle, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Children, Education and Early Help said; "It's good to hear about this important work The Blandford School are doing to support their young carers.
"These students have a lot to deal with on top of the usual pressures of school life, and knowing that the school is taking this seriously and they are being looked after by the school is a step in the right direction."