At the most recent meeting of Friendship Mark Lodge No. 1459, the Brethren had the privilege of welcoming Nicola McCarthy, Young Carers Coordinator, and Julie Brewis, Young Carers Support Worker from Positive Steps. Their heartfelt presentation highlighted the incredible work being carried out to support young carers across the Oldham area, with collaborative arrangements extending throughout Greater Manchester and Lancashire.
Young carers, aged between 8 and 18, often carry responsibilities far beyond their years. Many provide regular care and support for a parent or sibling, balancing these duties alongside school and the challenges of growing up. The presentation gave the Brethren a powerful insight into the realities these young people face and the importance of providing them with understanding, support and opportunities to simply enjoy being young.
Being a young carer can have a significant impact on many areas of life, including financial pressures within families, school attendance and educational achievement, friendships and social opportunities, and emotional health and wellbeing.
Through the Young Carers programme at Positive Steps, a wide range of support is offered to help these remarkable young people. This includes one-to-one support, fortnightly group sessions for both primary and secondary age groups, creative and therapeutic workshops such as colouring and clay modelling, as well as trips, visits and residential opportunities which allow young carers to take a well-deserved break from their responsibilities. The programme also works closely with schools and other local organisations to identify and support young carers, helping them to gain confidence, build friendships and even achieve recognised qualifications.
At the conclusion of the presentation, WBro. Alan Ward PGJD, Worshipful Master of Friendship Mark Lodge, and WBro. Robert Caserta PProvGJW, Commander of County Palatine RAM Lodge No. 156, were delighted to present two cheques of £100 each in support of this important work.
The funds will contribute towards creative workshops for young carers and will also help support a wonderful new initiative to create memory teddy bears made from a parent’s clothing, giving young carers something special to hold onto and keep their loved one close.
The evening was a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by young carers and the vital work carried out by organisations such as Positive Steps. It also reflects the ongoing commitment of Mark Masonry in East Lancashire to support local communities and charities, helping to make a real difference where it is needed most.
Young carers deserve recognition, encouragement and support, and it was an honour for the Lodge to play a small part in helping these extraordinary young people.
For further information, please contact Nicola McCarthy at NicolaMcCarthy@positive-steps.org.uk