Long before the full effects of Coronavirus hit home, the potential impact on the mental health and wellbeing of young carers was recognised. Arrival of the pandemic raised even greater concerns and a need for extra support.

Northamptonshire Carers is a charity that supports young people who care for someone - typically a family member - who has a long-term illness or disability.

The care provided is usually over and above what one would expect from a person of the carer's age and will have a noticeable impact on their well-being, education and aspirations. It's not at all unusual for young carers to become isolated from their peers, miss out on opportunities, and be unaware of the help available.

The Charity has been struggling to raise funds during lockdown, but thankfully, a Masonic grant of £14,334 will now enable them to employ a part-time wellbeing and group worker to support young carers. The grant is jointly funded by the Provincial Grand Charity (PGC) and the Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF). 

In presenting the cheque, WBro Gerry Crawford, a trustee of the local Freemasons’ charity, said:

Northamptonshire Carers play an important part in supporting the wonderful and unsung work of young carers in our community. We appreciate fundraising has been severely restricted due to Coronavirus and are very pleased to help out with this grant. We know it will be used to good effect.

Receiving the cheque, Gwyn Roberts, Chief Operating Officer, said

This is most generous of the Masons. It will make a tremendous difference to the level of support we are able to give to young carers at this difficulty time. We, and I’m sure they, are very grateful.