Due to the funding provided by East Ipswich Rotary, we were very fortunate to be able to host three young carer Christmas parties for young carers Ipswich locality. In total the parties offered a break from their caring role for 59 children and young people.
It was a brilliant opportunity to acknowledge the difficult year the children and young people have endured; disruption to their education, increased caring responsibility and the lack of social interaction. It was wonderful to see old friends reacquainted and new friendships formed.
For carers aged 13 -15 years we asked via social media what activity they wanted and the clear response was that they wanted somewhere to be together, relax and have fun. Our conference room at Claydon was transformed into a mini disco, the playlist and food choices were chosen in advance by the young people so they all got to indulge in their favourite music and treats. Neon face paints and glow sticks gave an indoor festival vibe.
The second party was for carers aged 5-9 years and the final party for carers aged 10-12 years.
We decided to book the skills of entertainer Mr Bean who kept the children (and adults) entertained with a magic show and balloon modelling. Part of the funding was also used to provide refreshments and each child got to take home a party gift bag.
‘I realise this is very late, but I wanted to thank you for putting on such a lovely Christmas party for the children. It was especially thoughtful to include L. with a little bag and a gift, it was brilliant for her, and H. really enjoyed herself. It must’ve been a lot of hard work and we all really appreciated it’. Feedback from parent of two young carers
‘Just want to say a massive thank you for organising the Christmas party. E was beyond happy, I nearly cried seeing her so happy. Thank you to everyone who organised this and funded this’. Parent of carer aged 6.
On behalf of the young carers, staff and volunteers of the young carer’s team we want to say thank East Ipswich Rotary for their continued support
