Chloe SmithMP for Norwich North
Chloe Smith
Member of Parliament for Norwich North, Chloe Smith, today joined with the Young Carers’ Forum and Team vNorfolk from vInspired to pay tribute to local young carers and listen to them speak about their experience of caring for a loved one.
Since becoming a local MP, Chloe has had the privilege of meeting a number of young people in her constituency who make enormous sacrifices in their daily lives to care for a parent, sibling or grandparent. She has been particularly concerned by their experiences at school, where they are often bullied, isolated or simply cannot keep up with their school work. Chloe has written to education Ministers to ensure that every effort is made to provide the pastoral and educational support that these young people need.
This event follows Chloe’s recent call to extend the Government’s information gathering about young carers to colleges and universities, where young people face a new set of challenges in managing their university life and caring responsibilities. Chloe believes it is vital to have the complete picture of young carers’ experience in order to deliver them the support they deserve.
Following the event, Chloe said:
“Young carers do face immense challenges, and today’s event was well-organised to show people the ins and outs of the sacrifices that young carers make.
“I've acted in Parliament to encourage the Government to do more to support them - particularly in schools. I also think we should encourage universities, colleges and workplaces to be aware of the strains too. Too many young carers remain 'hidden' because of the stigma, discrimination and bullying that are still too often associated with being a young carer.
“In Norwich, I’ve supported young carers many times, at the Young Carers’ Forum annual events, and also taken the time to meet young carers who get together in Catton Grove in my constituency. I’ll look out for every opportunity to do more.”