MP does yoga session on visit to meet young carers

HENLEY MP Freddie van Mierlo took part in a yoga session on a visit to Watlington Primary School where he met with young carers.

Mr van Mierlo and representatives from the charity Be Free Young Carers heard about their experiences and deputy headteacher Jonathan Gale explained how the school supports them.

Over the last year, the school has developed a policy and set up a group for young carers to access pastoral support and yoga sessions. To raise awareness within the school, some pupils told of their caring responsibilities in an assembly. Mr Gale said the school had “broadened the brushstrokes” of what it means to be a young carer, to make the definition more inclusive.

He added that the visit by Mr van Mierlo gave the carers a “pat on the back” for what they do.

Mr van Mierlo said: “Young carers are all around us. They go above and beyond every day for their siblings or parents who have care needs.

“The work being done by both the school and Be Free Young Carers is truly inspiring. It’s clear they are making a real and lasting difference.”