Care for the Carers, the leading charity supporting unpaid carers in East Sussex, has launched a vital fundraising appeal to provide much-needed respite for the 8,000 young carers in the county. Timed with National Carers Week (9th–15th June), the appeal raises awareness of the daily challenges faced by unpaid carers and the urgent need for better local support.
Jamie, 11, lives near Hastings. He loves dogs and days at the beach. But unlike many his age, his mornings begin at 6am—making breakfast, putting on a wash, playing with his brother, and helping his mum shower—before heading to school.
Jamie is a young carer. Like thousands of others in East Sussex, he will spend this summer helping at home rather than enjoying a holiday. Many young carers experience social isolation, emotional stress, and missed chances to simply be children.
A young carer is anyone aged 18 or under who helps care for a relative with a disability, illness, mental health condition, or substance misuse issue. It could be a parent or sibling.
Nationally, up to 1 in 5 children are young carers—many of them struggling with school and social life due to their responsibilities. In East Sussex, it’s estimated that around 8,000 young people fall into this group.
The charity operates across East Sussex, including local hubs in Eastbourne, Uckfield, Hastings, and Lewes. They run Young Carers Clubs in Eastbourne, Bexhill, and Uckfield—safe spaces where young carers can relax, play, and connect with others who understand.
Each 90-minute Club session costs just £45 to run.
Jamie, a regular attendee for three years, has grown in confidence thanks to the Clubs. “Before Young Carers Club, I didn’t go out much. Now I have friends who understand, and we always have fun—even if it’s been a hard day at home,” he shared.
Clubs offer a mix of sport, cooking, and social activities to help children decompress and reclaim a sense of childhood.
Over summer, the charity also organises day trips and family activities—providing vital respite for both young carers and their families.
Care for the Carers is calling on the East Sussex community to Give Young Carers a Break this Summer by donating to fund these essential services:
£45 covers venue hire for one Club session
£90 funds a picnic for carers and families
£500 sends 10 young carers to Legoland for the day
"Young carers give so much of their time and energy to supporting loved ones," said Jennifer Twist, CEO of Care for the Carers. “This appeal is about giving back—creating childhood moments and memories that every child deserves.”
Support young carers in East Sussex—just one 90-minute session can make a world of difference.
Donate at: justgiving.com/campaign/90minutesofchildhood
