Local councillor Steve Ardley made the day possible by generously donating money from his locality budget. He welcomed everyone to Water Lane Leisure Centre by saying:
“Our aim for today is to bring together 100 young carers so that you can meet like minded people, have fun, try new sports, learn to recognise and your manage wellbeing and find out about different support services that are available for you and your family.”
Being a young carer is a risk factor for the mental health of children and young people. That’s why the day focused on giving these children the chance to have fun, take part in activities to build their self-esteem, learn techniques to improve their wellbeing and form new friendships.
Terri Freeman from Northfields St. Nicolas Academy explained how proud she was “to be part of a day that makes a difference to so many, as not only do I have a huge professional commitment to young carers but I also shared a personal connection with you and I really admire your dedication and empathy.”
Sports leaders from Lowestoft College and Ormiston Denes encouraged the young carers to participate in all the activities; climbing wall, basketball, short tennis, dodge ball, yoga, spinning and fun fitness.
Mia, aged 12, who cares for her Mum with MS and arthritis, said after abseiling from the climbing wall, “I’m so proud of myself I was really scared of having a go as I have never done anything like this before but I did it and it was really fun.”
Katie Meadows from Suffolk Family Carers drew the day to a close by presenting every young carer with a certificate of participation. She said “How wonderful it was to so many smiling faces. I thank you all for taking part, getting to know each other and sharing new experiences together.”
