NATIONAL Lottery winners from across the North West have been bringing smiles to the faces of young carers in Blackpool.
The kind-hearted National Lottery winners, with a combined wealth of almost £40M, hosted a giant circus themed party for the 39 carers and their siblings at The Blackpool Tower.
Helen and Derek Garnett, from Ulverston, who won £1M on EuroMillions in 2017 were two of the winners who helped to organise the day.
During the afternoon of fun, which brought Carers Week 2022 to a close, the carers aged from five to 17, had the opportunity to learn circus skills including juggling and plate spinning. The young carers also had the chance to take part in circus crafts, face painting, balloon making and even test their skills on a bucking bronco!
Andrew Gunn, Respite Lead at Blackpool Young Carers, said: “It really was an absolutely fantastic afternoon. We cannot thank the National Lottery winners enough.
“These carers work so tirelessly and it was so lovely to see them having an afternoon packed with so much fun. Just to see the smiles on their faces meant everything.
“It was wonderful for their parents and guardians to be able to sit back, relax and watch their children having so much fun – but actually learning new skills at the same time.”
One young carer, who looks after her mother and brother, added: “This was just the best day ever! I cannot believe I learned plate spinning! There were just so many great activities to choose from. I knew my mum was safe and it meant so much that she was actually able to be there with me seeing me having fun.”
Ian and Sandra Black, from Carlisle, who won £2M in 2022, were two of the winners who helped to organise the day.
Sandra said, “Young carers can so often be forgotten about – it is absolutely incredible what these young people do day in, day out. Being a mother myself, this actually brings tears to my eyes just hearing some of their stories.
“I am so pleased that myself and the other winners here today have been able to play a small part in bringing some joy into their lives. These are all amazing young people.”
Blackpool Carers, which received £1.2M of National Lottery funding over the years, including most recently, a grant for £297,544 for their Family Focus project which will allow them to continue their work supporting the young carers of people affected by mental health and/or substance misuse and their families.
The charity helps to enhance the lives of carers by supporting them in creating friendships, helping them to feel less isolated and strengthening their resilience.
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