‘Carers Award 2024’ win for Young Carer at BBC Radio Lancashire #MakeADifference awards.

The BBC Radio Lancashire Make a Difference Awards recognises unsung heroes from across the county, reflecting everything from bravery to voluntary work. Hundreds of entries were whittled down to 32 finalists and the eight winners were announced at the annual ceremony, which this year took place on Saturday 21st September at the world-famous Blackpool Tower.

Eight local community heroes have been honoured at this year’s BBC Radio Lancashire Make a Difference Awards; with ‘The Carers Award’ being awarded to our very own Romi Taylor who accesses our Young Carers service which is commissioned and established by Blackburn with Darwen Council. We are proud of the recognition and awareness shown for the challenging role so many young people face.

BBC Radio Lancashire’s Breakfast show presenter, Graham Liver; host of the awards said:

“I’m so pleased that we’ve been able to bring the event to such an iconic venue. Our finalists represent the best of Lancashire and it’s our privilege to be able to give them some of the recognition they deserve and shine a light on their hard work.”

The BBC’s Controller of Local Audio Commissioning, Chris Burns, said:

“The Make a Difference Awards celebrate the good things that happen with our communities and it’s great to see that every year we see more and more nominations.

“The award ceremonies for me are a humbling experience and I feel privileged that we get to shine a light on these stories and give our listeners a chance to celebrate the unsung heroes where they live.”

‘The Carers Award 2024’ winner

“16-year-old Romi cares for her mum, who lives with COPD. Romi carries out her caring responsibilities with love and dignity and juggles being a young carer with her college education.”

Huma Sheikh, Young Carers and Family Support Manager at CANW said:

“We are so proud of all of Young Carers, and we are often humbled when we hear their stories and what they are doing to look after their family members who are unwell. For our Young Carer to win an award was absolutely fantastic because not only did it give the Young Carer the recognition they truly deserved, but also, our hope is that it may help to encourage other Young Carers to be identified. We offer timely support, 1:1 sessions, respite from their home situation – all the while ensuring that their voice is being heard in their role as a Young Carer.”

 

To learn more about support for Young Carers in Blackburn with Darwen visit: https://canw.org.uk/what-we-do/support-children-and-young-people/young-carers/

If you are a Young Carer and need any help, support, advice or just someone to speak to, there are support groups available and help. We don’t want anyone to struggle alone, please contact CANW by phoning 01254 244700, email YoungCarers@canw.or.uk or complete a referral to the Young Carers Service – https://canw.org.uk/young-carers-referral-form/