To ask the Minister of Education what action he will take to ensure teachers receive mandatory training to understand and support pupils who are young carers.

As part of the Education Welfare Service (EWS) Transformation Programme a need has been identified to utilise specialist practitioners to provide specific support for pupils who are young carers. This role would involve the provision of training to teachers and support staff, working in collaboration with health colleagues and others as appropriate. Implementation of a transformed approach to the EWS is subject to funding.

My Department continues to work closely with stakeholders to improve the understanding in schools around the role of young carers, the challenges they face, and the support available. In January 2024, my Department issued a ‘Young Carers in Education Digital Awareness Pack’ to all schools. The pack was developed in a collaborative approach with young carers and included a digital poster, guidance on ‘Supporting Young Carers in School’ and a research report produced by Action for Children’s Young Carers Reference Group. My Department will continue to provide assistance to young carers in our educational settings by working closely with colleagues in the Education Authority, other Departments and stakeholders.