Since 2021, the Rainey Creations Club at West Heath Community Centre has been a sanctuary for young people with SEND and young carers. These young carers, often burdened with responsibilities beyond their years, find a much-needed break and a chance to just be kids at Rainey Creations.
Young carers often miss out on the joys of childhood. They take care of parents with disabilities, mental health issues, addictions, or chronic illnesses, as well as siblings with similar challenges. Rainey Creations understands this and has tailored their club to cater to both groups, ensuring they get a respite from their daily duties.
Many young carers who attend have siblings with disabilities, Autism, or chronic illnesses. Their lives are filled with appointments, behavioural issues and disrupted routines. The club’s first HAF delivery in Summer 2021 highlighted that many parents were unaware of available support. Rainey Creations stepped in, not only providing a break for the children but also guiding parents to organisations like Noah’s Star and PHaB Camps.
Typical days for these young carers involve waking up at night to help siblings, assisting with dressing and entertaining, or helping with medical needs. When they arrive at Rainey Creations, the priority is to ensure they get to be kids. The club has a high return rate, showing just how much the young carers and their siblings enjoy it.
Adjusting to a new routine can take time for new attendees. They need to learn that the club is for them too, not just their siblings. Staff often split the children into groups, using different rooms to ensure everyone gets the same activities without the young carers having to worry about their siblings. For example, during a dance session, a young carer can participate without worrying about a sister who dislikes loud sounds.
If a child needs help with food or the toilet, the staff handle it. They don’t dismiss the young carers’ insights but instead incorporate them into the care team to ensure everyone has fun. It might be hard for the young carers to let go initially, but soon they relax, have fun and even get cheeky! They get to experience new adventures, like trips to the Safari Park, which were previously out of reach.
Rainey Creations also supports young carers looking after adults. These children, often FSM recipients, handle tasks like calling doctors for prescriptions and preparing meals. The club becomes a lifeline, offering them a break from their adult responsibilities. Here, they don’t have to set tables or do chores—they just get to have fun and be kids.
At Rainey Creations, every child gets the chance to relax, play and simply enjoy being young.