A 16-year-old Shrewsbury schoolgirl who has cared for her mum since she was old enough to walk has won an international care-giving award.
Sarah Thomas, from Copthorne, has won the Evelyn Nicholson International Award for Care Giving after being nominated by the Multiple Sclerosis Society. Sarah’s mum Carole has suffered from the condition for 30 years.
Sarah with her mum Carole.
Last year Sarah was awarded the MS society’s national award and has been very active in promoting young carers. She said the new accolade came as a big shock.
“Even though I was told about it in May I still haven’t got my head around it. I’ve always been very attached to the MS society so I’m really pleased. It was a nice shock, but a huge one,” she said.
Recently, the Shrewsbury Sixth Form student, was one of a small group who met Prime Minister David Cameron to discuss improving support for young carers ahead of a new strategy being launched this year.
“It was pretty huge, it’s not something that happens everyday and it was all quite surreal,” said Sarah.
“I asked the Prime Minster about university fees and how they expect young carers to go when they have limited funds because one or more of their parents are possibly disabled and not working. There’s also the impact on parents who rely on children to care for them. He couldn’t really come up with an answer but I don’t expect everyone to understand what it’s like being a young carer.”
Sarah said she believes it is important that other young carers speak out about their experiences and situation.
“Not many people have the confidence to talk but it’s important for people to understand what it is like.
“I’ve looked after my mum since I could walk, just doing household jobs where I could to start and that’s gradually built up over the years,” she added.
For more information and support on being a young carer visit www.youngcarer.com
by Anna Williams