Northumberland's Young Carers Action Day activities include a trip to London

Young carers are children and young people who help care for a family member who may have a disability, illness, mental health condition or addiction.

Over the past year, Carers Northumberland has been actively raising awareness of young carers and the challenges they can face.

A series of assemblies and events have been delivered in schools and communities – helping pupils, teachers and staff better understand the experiences of young carers and how they can support them.

The activities in relation to Young Carers Action Day included representatives from Carers Northumberland’s Young Carers Forum going to London to meet with Sir Martyn Oliver, Chief Inspector of Ofsted, to share their experiences and discuss how schools can better support young carers.

Their discussions contributed to an important development as young carers are now included within the Education Inspection Framework, meaning schools are encouraged to recognise and support young carers as part of the inspection process.

The group is also actively involved in the Young Carers National Voice, working alongside young carers from across the country to influence policy and improve support for young people with caring responsibilities.

Anne-Marie Johnstone, service co-ordinator for Carers Northumberland’s Young Carers Service, said: “We are incredibly proud of the contribution our young carers have made to implement positive change both locally and nationally through the significant changes Ofsted has brought forward for young carer support in schools.

“For Young Carers Action Day 2026, we want to highlight the importance of support for young carers in education and the positive impact it can have.”

In addition, schools across the county have been hosting Young Carer Groups – creating safe spaces where young people can connect with others who share similar experiences while gaining much-needed respite.

Coun Guy Renner-Thompson, the county council’s cabinet member for children and young people, said: “Young Carers Action Day is an important opportunity to recognise the incredible contribution young carers make to their families and communities.

“We are extremely proud of the young people in Northumberland who continue to speak up, influence change and support one another.

“Their work locally and nationally is helping to ensure young carers are recognised, supported and able to thrive.”