LSCP Young Carers Policy & Guidance
The LSCP Multiagency Young Carers Policy and Guidance outlines a multi-agency approach to identifying and supporting children under 18 who provide care for family members with disabilities, illness, mental health issues, or substance misuse. It emphasizes early identification through a whole-family approach, statutory duties under the Children and Families Act 2014, and the importance of assessing whether caring responsibilities are excessive or inappropriate. The policy details the potential impacts on young carers’ physical health, emotional wellbeing, education, and future opportunities, and sets out six broad categories of support, including emotional, practical, educational, financial, life planning, and respite care. It provides guidance on referral processes, assessment principles, and transition planning to adulthood, while stressing collaboration across agencies and raising awareness among professionals to ensure young carers are not left with harmful responsibilities and can access appropriate support and opportunities.