Young carers enjoyed an action packed fun day held during half-term at St Paul’s Catholic College in Burgess Hill. It was a very successful event with 32 young carers aged 6-15 years attending on the day. Young carers are children and young people who help look after a member of the family who is sick, disabled or has mental health problems, or is misusing drugs or alcohol. With so many adult responsibilities, young carers often miss out on opportunities that other children have to play and learn. The Fun Day provided an opportunity for the young carers to try out a range of activities, including swimming, crafts, tennis, cooking, face painting and circus skills. The event was organised by the Mid Sussex Young Carers Partnership, a multi-agency group led by Burgess Hill Youth, supported by Burgess Hill Town Council, St. Paul’s Catholic College, West Sussex Young Carers Team, Crossroads Care South Central and Mid Sussex District Council. Teaching and catering staff and pupils from St Paul’s, along with young volunteers from Outset Youth Action, also helped run the activities on the day and provided refreshments and lunch. Paul Myles, from Burgess Hill Youth, said: “Another well organised event enjoyed by all concerned, a great credit to the ethos of multi agency partnership working in our town and utilisation of the wonderful facilities provided by St Paul’s Catholic College”.
Business Manager at St Paul’s, Laurie Perry, said: “This is the fourth young carers Fun Day to be held at the College and we were very pleased to offer our support.”
Burgess Hill Town Mayor, Councillor Chris Thomas-Atkin, said: “The Fun Day provides a great opportunity to say thank you to some of the large number of young carers living in the area. Their needs are often overlooked, so they deserve our ongoing support and thanks.”
The Young Carers Partnership is planning an ongoing programme of activities for young carers in Mid Sussex. For information about future activities contact Jennifer O’Grady on 01444 238207 email Jennifer@burgesshill.gov.uk.
