Devon Young Carer Charley reaches new heights to help children who look after family members

A young carer who completed a sponsored skydive to raise money for young carers in North Devon has presented them with a cheque for over one thousand pounds to fund activities, trips and get-togethers. 

Charley Hockridge, a former student at Barnstaple’s Pilton Community College, is a volunteer for Devon Young Carers - a service provided by the charity Westbank that’s helped Charley through difficult times at home, at school and at college. Devon Young Carers provides both emotional and practical support to under 18s who help look after someone in their family or a friend. The help available through the service includes specialist advice, respite opportunities and trips and one-to-one support. 

At a recent Forest school activity for primary aged young carers, Charley presented the team’s Lead Practitioner Zoe Stewart and Support worker Fiona Parker with a cheque for £1,022.  Charley talked to the youngsters about her skydive and why she had wanted to raise money. She received a hearty and well deserved round of applause.

Charley is a great role model for young carers in Devon - she also volunteers to support them in accessing respite activities. She is always happy to share her own experience to encourage and inspire other young people in their caring roles. 

youngcarers@devoncarers.org.uk