This February half term, performing arts charity, Create joins forces with Richmond Carers Centre, to give 20 young carers the opportunity to shine through the dramatic arts.
Founded in 2003, Create is a charity which aims to transform the lives of thousands of disadvantaged and vulnerable people across the south of England. Its inspired:arts is a programme aimed at helping young carers relax through all manner of art forms, encouraging them to express themselves through art.
During February half-term, Create is once again reaching out to young carers in Richmond – with a drama project under the expert guidance of professional drama artist, Tom King. From February 16-18, 20 young carers (ages 12-15) will be getting their creative juices flowing at the Richmond Carers Centre, giving them the opportunity to create original pieces of drama which will be displayed to their families at the end of the three days.
Nicky Goulder, Create’s Chief Executive, said that they chose drama "because it’s an excellent way to enable the young carers to build their confidence and strengthen their bonds with others. It’s really important that young carers don’t feel that they have to deal with the stresses of caring alone, so these drama workshops aim to encourage supportive relationships between the young people".
- 13,000 UK's young carers care over 50 hours a week
- 27% of young carers miss school regularly due to their responsibilities at home
- 68% of young carers are bullied or feel isolated
- 75% of young carers struggle to maintain relationships with family and friends due to the stress of their caring role
The workshops will be held at the centre to make sure the carers have a familiar and friendly environment to work in, meeting other carers in similar situations while enjoying some relief from their responsibilities.
The use of drama encourages carers to express themselves and find something they are passionate about outside of their family. One young carer from Richmond, who participated in the 2014 programme, said his project had made him more confident, and encouraged him to express himself.
"I think the workshops have made it easier for me to socialise with people. I’m more confident too. I think when you get to know people and they’re nice to you, it makes the environment more friendly. I think that has had a big effect on my confidence.”
Inspired:arts helps carers by going "into communities where arts provision is low and there is a need for the charity’s work," Nicky explains. Create and Richmond Carers Centre both do amazing work to help young carers and promote awareness for their cause in the wider society. "Often people who take part in our workshops take the skills and social confidence that they’ve developed with Create into their wider community so there is a far-reaching benefit."
Want to be part of the journey to transform someone's life? Visit the Richmond Carers Centre and Create websites to find out how to volunteer