Young carers in Bedford win a big thank you from Sports Traider

Sports Traider decided to provide local young carer peer mentors with an ‘appreciation bag’ at their Christmas meeting held on December 20, as a thank you for their vital role.

The charity helps disabled and disadvantaged children fulfil their sporting ambitions and potential.

As part of their dedication to helping others, it is also involved in boosting the morale of others and recognising people who go above and beyond.

Charity volunteer Louise Campbell, whose son Lewis Lodge has been supported by Sports Traider, said: “Young carers are such a special group of children who work as hard as they can to juggle their lives, revising for exams, playing sports, whilst caring for a parent or a sibling. These responsibilities are a big ask of children, which is why, as Sports Traider, we wanted to say thank you to the mentors.

“These young carers not only care for a family member, but they help other young carers, being there to chat and pick them up when they are down, or offering advice.”

Lewis was a young carer who was supported by Sports Traider, with sponsorship, training and funding for equipment to help him with his football career.

Lewis now plays semi pro, has captained Crystal Palace u16s, got through to the final of England u18s schoolboys trial and is now studying sports science at university.

Louise added: “Since then, I’ve become involved with the charity and I know just how a little help and support can change people’s lives. And how a little ‘thank you, you’re doing a great job’ can mean so much to a child feeling lonely or overwhelmed with responsibilities.

“We have been overwhelmed with the support we’ve received from local companies and individuals, donating items for the carer bags.”

Companies that have generously donated include Boots, Sycal Printing, EA Sports, Philex Electrical, Debenhams, Madesil Pharmacy, Madfx clothing.

The fundraising events will continue and collections for young carers will be made throughout the year.

If any companies would like to help they can contact [email protected]