Young Carers Action Day is being marked in West Norfolk with an official ‘Thank You.’
Borough Mayor Harry Humphrey is thanking a group outside the Alive Coren Exchange in King’s Lynn, which is lit up with the young carers colours of blue, pink and green.
The special ceremony is being held as part of a national campaign to highlight their work and the need to battle isolation.
The Mayor said: “I am very pleased to support this Young Carers’ Action Day. West Norfolk Young Carers is one of my charities of my year, as I recognise the important and essential role that young carers fulfil, providing care to their own family or friends or in their local community.
“West Norfolk Young Carers give support by arranging respite care for young carers. They sometimes meet as a group for an evening, go on day outings or for a week away so that they know their value and dedication is recognised and that they are not alone. I thank them and all young carers for what they do.”
Jackie Haverson, Young Carers Leader at West Norfolk Young Carers, said: “West Norfolk Carers has supported over 7,000 young carers since our service began, and currently we are supporting over 200 active cases. Young carers frequently miss out on the usual childhood activities because they are busy caring for someone in the family who needs help and support, and all too frequently their education is negatively affected.
“Our role is to help the young carer and their family overcome as many of these challenges as we can by reducing inappropriate caring, and offering meaningful activities, breaks and support, all aimed at helping the young carers claim back some of their childhood. We are very pleased and grateful the Mayor has recognised our charity this year and is working with us to raise awareness about the needs of young carers.”
Support and advice for young carers, their families and professionals is available from youngcarersmatternorfolk.org