Young Carers Action Day

Young Carers Action Day raises awareness about young and young adult carers and the issues they face every day.

The Ivy and Jane Charitable Trust Fund administered by Kent Community Foundation knows only too well the issues that face young carers across Kent. Since 2005 they have distributed £500,000 to help children and young adult carers have enjoyable experiences that their circumstances mean they might otherwise miss out on.

Josephine McCartney, Chief Executive, Kent Community Foundation said, “There are over 10,000 young carers in Kent, and we believe that there could be a further 30,000 hidden young carers. Being a young carer can result in a lack of confidence and self-esteem, poor educational attendance, and academic performance and poor physical or mental health. The Ivy and Jane Charitable Trust Fund helps young carers to have enjoyable experiences that they might otherwise miss out on because of the adult responsibilities they take on at home.”

The Ivy and Jane Charitable Trust Fund has recently supported ‘Anna, Bianca, and Clare’, these are their stories.

Only child Anna (11) is the main carer for both her parents. Her Mother was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2019, while her father has been signed off work. Anna supports them at home and at appointments as well as keeping up with the household chores. The Ivy and Jane Fund awarded £280 to pay for Anna to take up horse riding lessons. This gives Anna valuable time away from her responsibilities at home to take part in a hobby she loves.

Bianca (21) lives with her single-parent mother who has multiple diagnoses, including depression and suicidal episodes and requires a high level of support to keep safe and well. Bianca herself has a diagnosis of ADHD, anxiety and depression and was frustrated that, in between her caring role household chores and attending college, she did not have any time for herself. Bianca was awarded a grant for swimming vouchers which gave her the opportunity to exercise, relax and have a peaceful break from the pressures at home.

Clare (9) lives at home with her parents and five siblings, where she cares for her two older brothers. Clare attended gymnastics at her school and was keen to sign up to a gymnastic club, but the fees were beyond her family’s reach. As the family were unable to afford the fees a grant of £600 paid for Clare’s gymnastics membership for one year, allowing her to take some time away from the home to be herself and enjoy an activity just for her.

Kent Community Foundation is keen to receive nominations from professionals including, social workers, GP’s teachers, occupational therapists, or charity employees, about any young carer who needs financial support to participate in enjoyable activities which would give them a break from their caring responsibilities.

Click here to nominate a young carer.