Christmas cheer for Young Carers in Southampton

18th December 2020

This week, No Limits has delivered Christmas stockings filled with gifts to Young Carers across the city, with the support of Brighterway, the charity for Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust.

50 stockings were filled with gifts of socks, chocolates, bath bombs, games, an Amazon voucher and more for children and young people who care for an unwell or disabled family member and are supported throughout the year by No Limits.

No Limits received a generous donation of £2,000 from Brighterway to purchase the stockings and gifts, which have helped to lift the young people’s spirits after what has been a difficult and challenging year.

A young carer supported by No Limits, said “I’m so grateful for my presents, I love them! I’m feeling very loved and overwhelmed – thank you.”

Alice Mooney, Service Manager at No Limits, said “2020 has been a really difficult year for children and young people; we’ve seen a huge rise in the number of young people facing loneliness, anxiety and mental health issues. Young carers in particular have experienced acute anxiety about the virus itself and how this will impact on their vulnerable family members.

We know from research conducted by Action for Children last year, half of young carers miss out on Christmas social activities due to their caring role, this year it’s further exacerbated by the Covid-19 restrictions.

Many of the young carers we support don’t get the opportunity to fully experience the magic of Christmas, which is why we’re so grateful to Brighterway for bringing them some Christmas joy.”

Brighterway were successful in obtaining a grant from NHS Charities Together, which enabled them to support local community organisations with a focus on helping to combat isolation and loneliness.

Ian Hynd, Head of Brighterway Charity, said “We’re delighted to be working alongside No limits to provide Christmas gifts and stockings to young carers. It’s a great way to lift their spirits and say thank you for all the time they have given caring for others throughout the year.”