Carers Week – An exceptional case of a young carer supporting her family!

Seeing stories of young people making a positive impact within their lives and community is something that we enjoy hearing and love to share! Last year, we awarded over 11,000 Achievement Awards to young people aged 11-25 across London and Essex, who have made a positive difference in people’s lives, communities and schools.

In the theme of Carers Week, we highlighted one exceptional case of Isabelle, who won an Achievement Award for her strength and resilience in caring for her family.

Isabel, aged 11 when nominated for the award, has been a massive backbone for her family. At such a young age, she has taken care of her late father, and cared for her younger sister, aged 10. Even though Isabel was dealing with bereavement and her caring role, she has been a pillar for the family, which was especially challenging during the pandemic.

Isabel winning an Jack Petchey Achievement Award with Donna Fraser as VIP for the event

Due to Isabel’s determination to care for her family, she won an Achievement Award, through which she was awarded a grant of up to £300 for her youth group. This grant was spent on an activity for her young carers group, where she could enjoy herself and have a break from her caring role, and at the same time, celebrate with other young carers. This enabled them to access support, have fun and make new friends with similar experiences and backgrounds.