Young Carers Statements & Assessments
Under the The Carers (Scotland) Act 2016 there is a duty placed upon local authorities to provide support to all young carers. This support is identified through a Young Carers Statement. Young Carers Statements were created to ensure that a young person’s caring role is appropriate to their age and development. The statement identifies the individual needs and personal outcomes of each young carer and is used to ensure they are provided with effective support to maintain their caring role should this be in their best interests. Having this in place may give the opportunity to access a wider range of services and support.
In Perth and Kinross the young carers statement is generally completed by one of the PKAVS young carers team following a young carers assessment. It can also be supported by another professional from school, social work or other agency supporting the young person. Families can also start the process themselves. The process is explained in full at the time of referral to our service.
If a young person does not want to be supported by PKAVS the duty then falls to schools or professionals within Perth & Kinross council who are involved in that young person’s support. There is guidance to support professionals to complete the statement available in our resources and downloads section.
The young carers statement will identify personal outcomes for the young carer and will contain information about:
- The impact of their caring role on the young person’s health and wellbeing
- The degree to which the young carer is able and willing to provide care
- The appropriateness of the care that they provide
- The support that they need if applicable.
The statement will inform whether the local criteria for support is met and what level they will receive. It is reviewed regularly and updated in line with the young carers needs.