Young carers head to the House of Commons

14 July 2023 | Posted by The Carers' Centre

Young Carers group picture in London

The Carers’ Centre recently supported 15 young people, who tirelessly care for their loved ones to engage in social action.

The young carers were able to attend the House of Commons with thanks to Wera Hobhouse MP and Bath Philharmonia. The young carers performed their own song as part of an orchestra with Bath Philharmonia on 10 July 2023, which showcased the incredible impact of music-making on young carers.

Their song, Listen was a hit with all of those in attendance including Shadow Minister for the Arts Barbara Keeley MP, Baroness Bonham-Carter and Liberal Democrat MP's Wendy Chamberlain and Munira Wilson.

The group’s message to be heard was loud and clear.

Anyone that cares for a relative or friend, due to an illness, disability or addiction can face enormous challenges, especially as a child. Young carers are providing more care than ever, with less provisions in place. With the added anxieties due to the cost-of-living crisis, young carers are often left feeling isolated, ignored and misunderstood.

“I didn’t think politicians knew or cared about young carers, but they do now! I didn’t think I’d be confident enough to stand in front of lots of adults and tell them about what we do or what we need, being able to explain through music helped a lot and now I know I’d be able to do it again. I think politicians still have a lot to learn about young carers, but doing this today has made a big difference and means we can keep talking to them to get them to listen more.”

Young Carer House of Commons experience
Group photo of young carers outside the House of Commons
Young carer and Mike with guitars on their laps smiling at the camera
Young carers performing at the House of Commons

The Carers’ Centre support both young and adult carers across the entire Bath and North East Somerset region. The charity provides a life-changing service dedicated to young carers to support them in the now and help realise their dreams for the future. Through The Carers’ Centre they get space to talk, build connections with others, leave with tools to continue to support their wellbeing and access opportunities to engage in social action.

CEO of The Carers’ Centre, Jacqui Orchard said:

“It is vital that our young carers are heard, especially by decision-makers. We have supported children with caring responsibilities who are as young as 5 years old. Given the amount of time they spend caring for their relative, the time they need for education and their age, they can often feel left out of the conversations that matter most to them.

We shouldn’t forget that young carers are determined, dedicated and have life skills that are beyond their years. Young carers’ voices matter. As they sang in the House of Commons, nothing will stop them, they are the greatest!

We are so thankful to our supporters and funders that enable us to empower young carers to use their voice and take part in incredible opportunities like this. Music is a powerful tool for a young carer to express themselves, gain confidence and be heard."