A MASSIVE thank you to all those who donated Christmas presents to our young carers, including the UCKG Help Centre and the Enfield Chase Rotary Club, amongst many other generous individuals.
On Wednesday 13th December, we had a brilliant Christmas Party, featuring a Christmas-themed yoga session led by Dai from the Kindness Club, arts and crafts, pass the parcel, plenty of festive music, and even a visit from Father Christmas!
This party made a HUGE difference to the young carers who attended, many of whom have had a difficult year with family members having operations and other medical issues, some facing or experiencing homelessness, financial concerns, bullying, or facing other challenges. They welcomed this chance to meet other young carers (and Father Christmas!) and it gave them the chance to socialise with others, form new friendships, and boost their confidence!
One of our volunteers who helped at the party said ‘How lovely for the children to have a respite from their caring roles. The children shared some really difficult challenges made harder by Christmas, finances, and A&E and hospital issues. How wonderful that they knew they were not alone and had a bit of fun for themselves’.
An extra thank you to our lovely staff and volunteers who helped us to set up and/or staff the event. Kerrianne, Kara, Becky, Xoe, Shelby, and Ros were our fabulous helpers for the night, bringing Christmas cheer to all, and leading the activities. The lovely Dai led us in a Christmas Kindness Club session – complete with snowflakes and snow, often to the Frozen soundtrack.
Phyl and her husband kindly spent ALL DAY creating a magical Christmas grotto – this was so much appreciated by us and the children. I’m not sure that meeting Santa would have had the same effect without such a beautiful setting! Arthur, Kathy, Heather, and Ros also did a sterling job wrapping presents and decorating!
