Did you know, there are an estimated 700,000 young carers here in the UK? These inspiring young people work hard to take care of their families, day in and day out, sometimes at great personal cost. They put others before themselves, every time. They learn more about compassion and sacrifice in childhood than most will learn in a lifetime. But how often do these young people receive the recognition they deserve? How often do we acknowledge the enormous contribution they make to our society?
A young carer is a child, just like any other. The only difference is that young carers are responsible for the care of at least one family member, though they may be as young as 5 years old themselves. These children work incredibly hard to take care of their loved ones, yet they represent a largely forgotten community, and often face enormous disadvantage as a result. Dorset-based charity, MYTIME Young Carers, work to level the playing field for young carers by providing them with the support, opportunities and friendship that every child needs and deserves.
On Friday 18th February, MYTIME’s Hair2Care campaign is back for its second year running. The campaign represents a rare opportunity to publicly celebrate young carers, and the important role they play within our communities. Young carers often report feeling invisible, but by taking part, you’ll be showing young carers everywhere that you see them, you value them and you support them. Most of all, you’ll be showing how much you care.
The question is this: how will you wear your hair to show you care? Maybe you’ll opt for a wild wig, maybe you’ll go for some crazy colours or maybe you’ll brave the shave! Whatever you do, be sure to upload a photo to social media using the #hair2Care and tagging MYTIME Young Carers. Then to donate £5, text HAIR to 70970.
But funky hair isn’t the only way you can support MYTIME. Over the next few months, MYTIME will see their supporters take on some amazing feats of endurance to raise funds and awareness for young carers. Whether by running the London Landmarks Half Marathon on MYTIME’s behalf, by completing a 3 Peaks Challenge, by taking part in a Tough Mudder or even by cycling from Sandbanks to Saint Tropez, MYTIME’s community are giving their all to support this vital, local charity. And you can too!
To complete your own fundraising challenge in aid of MYTIME Young Carers, or to find out more about how you can support the charity, email enquiries@mytimeyoungcarers.org. None of their work would be possible without AWESOME humans showing up and showing their support for young carers, so get involved today.
