MEET ABI
Abi is a young carer (aged 14) for her older
brother who has autism. She also cares for her
eight-year-old sister, and provides emotional
and practical support for her mum, a single
parent. She often worries about her family’s
financial stability, and the prospect of
homelessness, which is why she contributes
the £5 pocket money her absent father gives
her each week to the family budget. Her
responsibilities mean that she often gets up
at 4am to do her schoolwork. She has little
time left to pursue her passion of drawing
and illustration.
Create was introduced to Abi via the young
carers service that she attends. Working
collaboratively with other young carers under
the guidance of Create’s professional artists,
she has explored a range of artforms including
painting, ceramics, animation, filmmaking and
creative writing. These workshops give her time
and space away from her caring responsibilities
and a chance to connect with her peers.
Create projects are co-created with the
communities where they are run. Working
under the guidance of Create’s professional
artists enables participants like Abi to develop
their creative thinking, teamwork and social
skills, while having fun and building
supportive relationships.
Doing projects with Create has taught
me how to think creatively, which
has been a massive help with my
schoolwork. I like to draw and paint
when I have a moment to myself. It
lets me relax and let go of stress and
anxiety. It also lets me dream. Taking
part in Create workshops has enabled
me to make new friends too, with
other young people who understand
what it’s like to be a carer.Create is the UK’s leading charity
using the creative arts to empower
lives, reduce isolation and enhance
wellbeing. Its focus is on the most
disadvantaged and vulnerable children
and adults across the UK. The creative
arts are a powerful tool for enhancing
wellbeing and developing skills and, at
a time of increased isolation, engaging
in creative activity has never been
more important.
CREATEARTS.ORG.UK/JOIN
Charity Registration 1099733SUPPORT US
Due to quarantine, young carers like Abi have
never been more isolated. We are seeking urgent
funding to support the online workshops and
resources we are creating for our participants,
enabling them to pursue their passion for art
and creativity during this unprecedented time.Join our Create the Difference scheme today from
just £10 a month. You can make an incredible
difference for people like Abi.Picture drawn by Abi