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Young carers given £30,000 Children in Need grant

James Grant/BBC A group of children participating in a drama workshop by posing in different positions. They are all standing around a circle in a brightly lit room. Behind them are some chairs and snacks on a table. James Grant/BBC
The grant will enable young carers to participate in activities such as drama workshops

A charity that supports young carers across a county has been awarded a grant from Children in Need.

Northamptonshire Carers will receive close to £30,000 from the BBC charity, which will be paid over three years.

The grant will fund a part-time worker dedicated to planning and delivering activities tailored for young carers, which will give them respite and opportunities for social interaction.

Cat Hemmington, a sessional worker at Northamptonshire Carers, said the funding from Children in Need was "incredibly valuable".

James Grant/BBC A smiling Cat Hemmington looks directly at the camera from the side, she is wearing a black dress with white stars on it. She has a blue lanyard and black glasses. James Grant/BBC
Cat Hemmington said the same level of service for young carers "couldn't be delivered" without the grant

Northamptonshire Carers estimates there were at least 70,000 carers across the county, though the actual figure is likely much higher.

Lily, 11, helps care for her mother, who suffers from fibromyalgia and degenerative disc disease. She said she "enjoys" attending young carer groups, where she meets others in similar situations.

'Have a lot of responsibility'

Lucinda Buckley, a senior young carer worker at Northamptonshire Carers, emphasised the importance of the support groups. She said: "A lot of our young carers can feel quite isolated due to circumstances at home.

"Bringing them together with peers in the same position provides a vital sense of connection and support.

"I have five year olds who are potentially doing housework or helping out with their families. They can have a lot of responsibility."

Ms Hemmington added: "It's really important for young carers to experience fun things and get a break."

More than 8,000 children benefited from local projects supported by £2.3m in funding from Children in Need.

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