Work in Schools

One of the main routes taken by the project to identify young carers has been through work with secondary schools.

In conjunction with the project, Dundee City Council's Education Department has developed a 'Policy on Provision for Young Carers' which outlines the committment of the department to ensuring young carers are better identified and offered extra support through both the school and the Young Carers Project, if necessary.

The new YCP Education Pack includes lessons for primary and secondary ages. This is the first time the project has developed materials specifically for use with primary aged children. The sessions aim to raise awareness and promote a more general understanding of caring, with the aim of identifying hidden young carers and reducing the isolation and bullying they often experience. Training to Guidance staff can be provided in the best way to use the materials. A DVD with various clips in relation to the project, accompanies the pack.

Another resource entitled 'Doing the Right Thing in Schools', has been produced by the Princess Royal Trust for Carers.

Both the above resources can be downloaded from our downloads section.

In addition to the Education Pack, the project continues to follow up opportunities to get involved in Dundee schools. This includes the delivery of lessons to S2 pupils in some secondary schools in the city and representation at various Information Fairs in local secondary schools throughout the year. During 2009, workshops have taken place within the following schools –

• Baldragon Academy
• Grove Academy
• Harris Academy
• St John’s RC High School
• Morgan Academy
• Braeview Academy

If you would like more information or are a teacher interested in training being given to your pupils, please contact us.