King James has been awarded the Young Carers' Charter following working with Glenys Newby from Family Action's The Bridge Young Carers' Project. Glenys visited the school last term to speak to students about the role of young carers, how they might be identified and about the support available to them.

The award was presented to Val Bainbridge, our Student Support Worker with responsibility for young carers in our school. She said, "We are very proud to accept the Young Carers' Charter. It is recognition of our work to support young carers at King James and it has helped us to re-focus on the needs of our students. We will continue to raise awareness about the issues they face."

In consultation with students, a Young Carers' Policy has been drawn up and adopted; this is available on the school website. This month, we will be launching a Young Carers' Support Group. The focus will be on young carers and their friends but it will also be open to any student who would like to attend.

Students, parents or carers are welcome to contact Mrs Bainbridge for support or advice. Students can visit the Student Support office or you can telephone 01388 603 388. For information about The Bridge Young Carers please visit www.family-action.org.uk