North West law firm Woodcock, Howarth & Nuttall Solicitors (WHN) has partnered with Accrington Academy to recognise the vital role of young carers as part of Young Carers Action Day.
The national day, co-ordinated by the Carers Trust, aims to raise awareness of young carers and the unique challenges they face, while calling for more support across the UK. This year’s event took place last Wednesday (March 12).
WHN’s sponsorship, alongside additional support from Mortimers Estate Agents, allowed Accrington Academy to provide young carers with recharge packs which included self-care items, treats, and activities, designed to give them a moment of appreciation.
Jamie Peel, principal of Accrington Academy, said: “At Accrington Academy, we believe young carers are some of our school community’s most inspiring and selfless young people. They give so much of themselves every single day, often without recognition.
“Thanks to WHN Solicitors, we’ve shown them how valued and appreciated they are. This support means the world to our young carers and everyone who cares about their wellbeing and success.”
An estimated one in five young people in the UK is a young carer. Many provide care for a family member with a disability, mental health condition or illness. Some young carers are as young as five years old, often taking on significant roles within their families.
According to the Carers Trust:
- 68 per cent of young carers say they feel stressed because of their caring role.
- 45 per cent report that their mental health is impacted.
- 27 per cent regularly miss school or experience difficulties with learning because of their responsibilities.
As event partner, WHN provided funding to allow Accrington Academy to purchase the recharge packs for students.
Julie Sutherland, director of business development and marketing, WHN attended Accrington Academy for an event last Wednesday to recognise Young Carers Action Day.
She said: “As a company, we are committed to supporting and investing in the communities we operate. We have a long history in Accrington with many of our staff living in and knowing the area.
“The work of young carers’ is vital to the local community and we believe it should be celebrated – which is why we were keen to support the event. It’s been inspiring to see first-hand how the initiative has had such a positive impact on young carers in the area.”
The theme of this year’s Young Carers Action Day, ‘Give Me a Break’, highlights the vital need for young carers to have time to themselves, away from their responsibilities.
For more information on supporting young carers, visit www.carers.org/youngcarerscovenant.
