New Young Carers Christmas Tree Unveiled
A replacement Christmas tree to showcase the experiences of Young Carers is now on display in the Castle Quarter in Norwich
The original tree was part of a trail of Christmas trees around the Castle Quarter put up to highlight the work of several charities and community groups across Norfolk. The Young Carers Matter tree featured handmade decorations created by carers aged five to 16, who have been supported by Voluntary Norfolk’s Young Carers Matter service. Each decoration was made around the theme “See Me”, highlighting the often unseen or overlooked lives of children and young people who provide care for a parent or sibling at home.
After the tree was vandalised, most of the 41 decorations were lost or destroyed. However, six of the original decorations were recovered. They have now been rehung on a newly installed tree, alongside new decorations, allowing young carers’ voices and experiences to be visible once again.
Clare Pedersen, Education & Community Lead and Young Carer Team Lead at Voluntary Norfolk’s Young Carers Matter service, said:
“Our young carers were deeply disappointed by what happened. The whole purpose of the tree was to showcase their stories and the challenges they face. Too often, sadly, these responsibilities go unnoticed by the world around them. For many of these children, this was about being seen and feeling proud of who they are.”
She added:
“We’re incredibly pleased that a new tree is now in place and that some of the original decorations have been put back on display. Young carers are so often invisible, and it means a great deal to them to know that their experiences, creativity and voices are once again being shared with the wider community.”
Who is a young carer?
Young carers are children and young people who provide regular care for a family member who is ill, disabled, experiencing mental ill health or affected by substance misuse. Many balance caring responsibilities with school, friendships and growing up, often without recognition.
Voluntary Norfolk hopes the new display will encourage people across the county and beyond to learn more about young carers and the vital role they play, and to consider how they can help ensure young carers feel supported, recognised and valued. Clare said:
“Every child deserves a childhood and given how challenging Christmas-time can be for young carers, as this period is often exacerbated by added caring responsibilities. We hope that this display will reassure them that they are not forgotten or overlooked. Our Young Carers Matter team will continue to work hard to reiterate that message to them.”
The Young Carers Matter service provides emotional support, activities and advocacy to help young carers across Norfolk thrive. To support their work, please donate at: www.justgiving.com/campaign/youngcarersmatternorfolk
