Community Called to Support Young Carers After their Christmas Tree Destroyed
A Christmas tree decorated by young carers across Norfolk has been destroyed in an act of vandalism on 22nd November. This is deeply disappointing and so we are calling on the community to respond with kindness.
The Young Carers Matter (a service provided by Voluntary Norfolk) tree showcased 41 handmade decorations created by children aged 5–16 with caring responsibilities. Each decoration carried personal messages reflecting the theme “See Me”. This was chosen by the young carers to highlight their wish to be recognised, supported and understood.
On 22nd November, the tree was vandalised and removed. Sadly, only six of the children’s decorations could be salvaged. The remainder were destroyed or taken, meaning the young carers will not be able to retrieve their creations or see their work displayed.
Clare Pedersen, Education & Community Lead and Young Carer Team Lead at Voluntary Norfolk’s Young Carers Matter Service said:
“The tree was never just about decorations. It was about visibility, pride and helping young carers feel truly seen.
“These young people already carry adult levels of responsibility every single day. While we are deeply disappointed, we are choosing to respond with kindness, strength and a renewed commitment to making sure young carers know they matter.”
What the Christmas Tree meant to Young Carers…
Many of the young carers involved come together to create the decorations. It proved a welcome opportunity to spend time with others with caring responsibilities. For them, creating a decoration for the tree was an opportunity to feel proud and celebrated.
A young carer aged 7 said: “I loved making my decoration — I’ve never had something I made put on a tree before!”. Another, aged 13, said: “Doing my decoration made me feel noticed. It felt good that people were going to see it.”
Voluntary Norfolk is now asking the public to stand with young carers. Please think about sending messages of support, learning more about young caring, and helping ensure these children are not invisible.
“We are looking to getting another tree and are looking for individuals who may be visiting the Castle Quarter to decorate the tree.”
She continued: “While this act of vandalism risks reinforcing what young carers face every day, namely being overlooked. The community can send a louder message: that Norfolk sees them, values them, and stands with them.
“If people would like to support young carers but cannot contribute a Christmas decoration, they can donate to help young carers across Norfolk feel seen, lighten their load, and give them back precious moments of childhood. After all, every child deserves to be a child!”
Donate at: www.justgiving.com/campaign/youngcarersmatternorfolk
