Rotary Club of Senlac St Leonards chooses to support East Sussex Young Carers

We are delighted to announce that Colin Goldsack, President of the Rotary Club of Senlac St Leonards, has chosen Imago’s East Sussex Young Carers service as his Charity of the Year.

Colin’s decision was inspired by a powerful experience during the Covid-19 pandemic, when he helped run a project to recognise young people who had taken on extraordinary caring responsibilities.

The Young Covid Hero initiative invited nominations for children and young people aged 8–17 who had shown exceptional dedication in caring for family members during the pandemic. Seventeen young carers were nominated, each with an inspiring story of resilience, compassion and selflessness.

There were 17 nominations for youngsters aged between 8 and 17 years old; their stories were amazing, tear-jerking and totally hidden to so many people in the community. The expectations of them were not those expected of a child – even an adult would have found them difficult to carry out on a day-by-day basis.

Many had had no real childhood, little time for play or to make friends, so sad, but they didn’t complain. They got on with what needed to be done; they were, and are, real heroes, un-applauded in so many instances.

Colin Goldsack, President of Senlac St Leonards Rotary Club

 

One nomination particularly stayed with Colin – an 11-year-old young carer who helped care for both his mother, who had significant health needs, and his younger sister. Alongside helping with daily tasks, preparing meals and supporting his sister, he would also sit with his mother at night when she was in pain, helping her take medication and comforting her until she fell asleep.

The experience gave Colin a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by young carers and the sacrifices they make every day, often without recognition. It is this admiration for their dedication and resilience that led him to select East Sussex Young Carers as his chosen charity for the year.

My club could not select one hero – they were all heroes and all received a cash reward and certificate. These young carers do such an amazing, unsung, job for which they make so many sacrifices without complaint. I am so proud to support them.”

Colin Goldsack, President of Senlac St Leonards Rotary Club

 

Thank you

We are incredibly grateful to Colin and the Rotary Club of Senlac St Leonards for their support.

Their fundraising throughout the year will help us continue to provide vital services, opportunities and respite for young carers across East Sussex, ensuring they receive the recognition, support and chance to enjoy their childhood that they so richly deserve.