Further education and young carers

Further education and young carers

Many young people want to go on to further and higher education, seeing the benefits it can bring in terms of careers and personal fulfillment. However, combining study with a caring role can bring challenges.

Challenges for moving on

You may find getting the grades you need easy, or you might find it difficult to balance your course work with your caring responsibilities.

Trying to fit in study around other commitments may put you off continuing your education.

There might also be pressure from family members to stay at home, or to get a job if there are money worries.

Where you can get advice

There are lots of options for young carers who want to go on to further or higher education. If you get good advice, information and support, you can make better choices. Schools, colleges and universities can give you general advice that’s not just about careers.

Other organisations offering advice include:

• College Development Network
• Student Awards Agency Scotland

If you’ve been attending a young carer’s service, they can also support you to make choices about further and higher education.

Carers Trust Scotland have campaigns to support student carers in higher and further education:

• Going Higher In Scotland
  
• Going Further In Scotland (for colleges)