The Rotary Club of Bath raise much-needed funds for young carers

We are delighted to announce that the Rotary Club of Bath have kindly chosen us as their charity of the year, raising funds for our young carers’ service.

Made up of local volunteers, the Rotary Club of Bath aim to help make Bath and beyond a better place. They supporting a range of charities, both locally and further afield.

There are an estimated 3,000 children caring for a loved one in Bath and North East Somerset

They are under the age of 18 years old, caring for a family member or friend who can’t manage alone due to an illness or disability.

The Rotary Club’s efforts will raise much-needed funds for a key part of our service at The Carers’ Centre

Last month, Jo and Lindsey from our Young Carers team along with Gracie, a local young carer, gave a presentation to members of the Rotary Club at Lansdown Golf Club.

They highlighted the many challenges young carers face each day, such as finding the time to do homework or meeting friends, and how fundraising is crucial to supporting them to reach their full potential and allows them to have a break from their caring responsibilities.

They also pointed out that although looking after someone can be rewarding, it can often make young carers feel anxious and worried. The pandemic has also had a devastating impact on young carers across the UK.

66% of of young carers feel more stressed since the pandemic*

Gracie, who is part of our young carers network, also bravely volunteered to share her experiences. She was able to talk openly and honestly about her own experiences as a young carer for her brother and the benefit of being part of The Carers' Centre.

Gracie regularly attends our groups and activities. She described how they give her a chance to have a break from caring and have fun with other children like her. Hearing from her directly had a huge impact on the audience who rightly gave her a massive round of applause.

Alongside their fundraising support, the Rotary Club have offered a young carer the opportunity to enjoy a no-expenses-spared adventure weekend in Dartmoor as part of their Youth Leadership Awards programme.

Jo Grobler, our Young Carers Service Manager said:

"This is a fantastic opportunity for one young carer with potential to develop and nurture their leadership skills and allow them to shine and implement the natural attributes that many young carers inherently possess. This enables them to be recognised as the confident, capable and amazing young people they are. We are very grateful to the Rotary Club for all their support."