Sheree (9-15s adviser for the West): ‘’We knew how successful our online engagement had been, especially when we have sent packs out in the post to our young carers. The packs have enabled better engagement, young carers the correct items / resources to use, and an exciting delivery – instead of the usual gas bill! The idea of the self-care boxes was to recognise what kind of year it has been and to encourage a little TLC, also known as self-care. We as humans are so caught up in the business of life that we often forget to take care of ourselves, these packs have encouraged young people to take some well-deserved time out!’’
The boxes included;
- A Gingerbread candle
- Fluffy Socks
- Chocolate Bar
- Lavender or Coconut Bath salts
- Face mask
- Hot Chocolate
- Candy Cane
- Sleep / eye mask
- Self-care Chapter and top tips
“Young Carer: Hello, I just want to say a humongous thank you to you and Suffolk family Carers, Rotary Club for the box I was sent. It’s so cool and has made me feel so happy and appreciated- I love everything in it and will use it all with great delight 😎!! Thank you so much, again Merry Christmas 🎄”
“Young Carer: Thank-you so much for my Christmas present!”
“Parent: Hello I just wanted to let you know we have received the box of treats and can’t wait to settle down and wear the fluffy socks! Thank – you for this thoughtful gift, have a lovely Christmas and happy new year x”
These are few of the lovely comments we have received from our Self-Care packs which were sent to young carers as a Christmas treat. The Bury Abbey Rotary, whom has supported young carers for many years, provided us with some generous funding to help lift young carers’ spirits this year.
The funding allowed us to provide 50 self-care boxes to young carers aged 13 and over, an activity to planet laser on Wednesday 9th December, and a new years treat to our Draw with Me Group.
Postal packs have been a lifeline to many young carers who, during lockdown have struggled to see friends and engage in outdoor activities. We did our best to provide face to face activities when restrictions allowed us, however for many this was replaced by online support and check ins. We have recognised the need for both online, and face to face support so will be providing a mixture of opportunities in the New Year.
We would like to take this time to thank Bury Abbey Rotary for supporting young carers this year in a way which was meaningful and creative. Perhaps after this year a dip in Lackford lakes could be classed as the closest thing to the Maldives? Fingers crossed we can appreciate partnership working more face to face next year.
From all of us to all of you, Merry Christmas and a very Happy new year to you!
