YOUNG carers from across Cheshire took the opportunity to have a well-deserved day thanks to funding from Redrow.
Cheshire Young Carers received £ 1,500 from Redrow to facilitate a program of activities and outings for young carers ages six to 18.
Activities are chosen by the young supervisors themselves, including trampoline jumping, dining at a restaurant of their choice, going to the movies, and free time to shop and make new friends, just a few of the Redrow-funded experiences.
The aim of the vacation program is to improve the health and well-being of young caregivers and to reduce the negative effects of their care responsibilities.
Alan Jones, Assistant Operations Manager at Cheshire Young Carers said, “The vacation program is a direct result of the fact that young carers express a real need for relief support during the school vacation because of their caring responsibilities making them feel“ locked in ”and lonely. The effects of social isolation and the resulting loneliness are stronger than ever today due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Social isolation can lead to an increase in complex emotions, anxiety, loneliness, depression, self-harm, panic attacks, difficult relationships with food, and an increase in suicidal thoughts.
“With the support of staff and volunteers, young caregivers can stay an active part of a community with real identity by delivering fun activities both face-to-face and digitally via zoom. They also have the opportunity to see their friends and find out how to do it, which has a massive positive impact on their mental health and wellbeing, as in some cases staff and volunteers can often be the only social point of contact for young caregivers . ”
The young caregivers are encouraged to suggest and plan activities tailored to their age group and supported by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers.
One of the young caregivers said: “Trips like the day in Cheshire Oaks are a luxury for me. I know it sounds crazy, but having a day to myself to go out to eat, meet friends, relax, watch a movie and just play silly trampoline with other young caregivers is absolutely great. ”
Another added, “It was exactly what I needed. I haven’t seen many of my friends in the last 18 months, so it was just nice to have time away from the stressful private life and be with them again, with adults I know. My family really appreciate the support we have received from Cheshire Young Carers. ”
Amanda Hollins, Area Sales Manager for Redrow, said, “Young carers have tremendous responsibilities in the home all year round.
“We were excited to support the Cheshire Young Carers Vacation Program to give young people a well-deserved break from their caring role. It was great to see so many smiling faces when they visited Cheshire Oaks and the Coliseum, going to the movies, jumping on the trampoline and dining in a restaurant are natural for many young people, but a real treat for young carers. ”
Redrow’s support for Cheshire Young Carers is through a £ 10,000 community volunteer fund that is being used to build new homes in Ledsham Garden Village and The Pastures, Backford Cross. The fund was split between 10 local charities.
Ledsham Garden Village is a project of approximately 2,000 homes set in 100 acres of open space, with Redrow pledging to invest £ 13 million to help the neighborhood grow.
The Pastures is a 100-house community with nearly £ 250,000 invested in local education, health facilities and sports fields in the area.
