Young Carers visit WWT Slimbridge
Earlier this summer, a group of 10 young carers paid a visit to WWT Slimbridge, a wetlands centre in Gloucestershire. The day out was led by Carers Support Bristol and South Gloucestershire, a network partner of Carers Trust.
On a glorious summer’s day it was a rare opportunity for the young carers to enjoy a few precious hours with their friends away from their caring role looking after a parent, grandparent or sibling with health issues or a disability.
WWT Slimbridge is a beautiful location and there were acres of space for the young carers to explore and play in. And when the young carers had finished exploring, the knowledgeable and friendly staff were on hand with guided tours and to answer the young carers’ questions.
The group was treated to a bird show, where one young carer overcame her anxiety by getting up on stage and taking part in a bird dance. Another young carer, who had previously found speaking difficult, had the courage to approach a member of staff and ask a question about the birds.
It was a day of firsts with one young carer climbing a tree for the first time. Others got their first ever glimpse of flamingos, and one was chased by ducks for the first (and hopefully last) time!
Zoe Cutten, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Carers Trust, said:
“Days like this give young carers the chance to take a break from their caring responsibilities, spend time with friends and just have fun. We’re incredibly grateful to the National Garden Scheme and WWT Slimbridge for making this special day possible and for helping create memories that will stay with these young carers for a long time.”
WWT Slimbridge’s General Manager, Gary Haseley-Nejrup, said:
“We were delighted to welcome these wonderful young carers to WWT Slimbridge, thanks to our partnership with the National Garden Scheme. We know that spending time in wetlands can improve wellbeing and provide a sense of calm. It means a lot to us to be able to give these young carers the chance to enjoy themselves, spend time together surrounded by nature, and make lasting memories.”
Carers Trust’s partners of 30 years, the National Garden Scheme, were instrumental in setting up the day, making all the arrangements with their own partners at WWT Slimbridge. The National Garden Scheme has long championed the health benefits of getting outdoors and into beautiful green – and blue – spaces. This is especially true for carers of all ages who often have to spend long hours indoors because they are looking after someone at home.
“We are delighted that our partnership with WWT has enabled young carers to enjoy time in nature,” said National Garden Scheme Chief Executive, Dr Richard Claxton. “It was a really special opportunity for young carers from Gloucestershire to be treated to a day out in such a beautiful and unique location, so huge thanks to WWT for hosting the event.”
Well done to all the courageous young carers who came along on the day. And thank you to WWT Slimbridge and the National Garden Scheme for providing an invaluable opportunity for this group of fantastic young people.
To find out more about the National Garden Scheme partnership with Carers Trust click here
Images ©Tina Gue-Young
