Caring for our young carers
Young carers in Kent are receiving care packages, containing arts and crafts, after their regular group activities were stopped because of the Coronavirus lockdown.
Crossroads Care Kent is a leading charity providing support to carers and the people they care for. Now thanks to extra funding from local housing provider, Golding Homes, the organisation can deliver activity packs to the young carers that they support.
“Our young carers are young adults and children under the age of 18 who look after family members with a disability, illness, mental health condition, or a drug or alcohol problem,” said Marie Smith, Deputy Manager of the Young Carers Project at Crossroads Care Kent. “We offer them support and guidance, helping them to continue their caring responsibilities but also making time for themselves.”
Following the lockdown nine weeks ago the charity had to stop all group meetings and activities for their carers. Despite regular telephone contact with the young carers and their families, Crossroads Care Kent found the children were struggling with the lack of respite.
“During regular telephone calls with our families, it was clear that the children were missing school and our group meetings. The time they spend away from the house gives them valuable respite from being a young carer,” said Marie.
“Many of our families are struggling financially, unable to buy materials to help keep their children entertained during lockdown. Thanks to the extra money from Golding Homes we can make up activity packs full of arts and craft materials. This will give the children a real boost, providing them with fun activities to make and do.”
Golding Homes have allocated some funding from their Community Chest Fund to key charity partners who have been badly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. So far 11 different organisations and charities, including MMK Mind, Citizens Advice Medway and The Stones Community Trust have all benefited from the extra money.
Caroline McBride, Head of Community Development at Golding Homes, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to support Crossroads Care Kent as part of our Community Chest Fund. The work these young carers do is amazing and as a local landlord it’s important for us to give something back during these challenging times.”
Crossroads Care Kent aim to help carers make a life of their own, by supporting and providing quality care services to them and those they care for. For anyone providing care or support to a family member or friend because they are ill, elderly, frail or have a physical or learning disability please contact Crossroads Care Kent. Visit their website crossroadskent.org, or call 03450 956 701.