Brave young carers in Portsmouth given a festive treat

INSPIRATIONAL children who care for others were given the perfect Christmas gift over the weekend.
Connor, 12, firefighter Geoff Doughty and Elijah, 11  Picture Ian Hargreaves  (161355-3)Connor, 12, firefighter Geoff Doughty and Elijah, 11  Picture Ian Hargreaves  (161355-3)
Connor, 12, firefighter Geoff Doughty and Elijah, 11 Picture Ian Hargreaves (161355-3)

About 44 youngsters took part in an action-packed tour of Southsea Fire Station on Saturday morning.

The day was a reward for the selfless boys and girls who give up their time to care for loved ones with disabilities or mental health disorders.

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As well as putting the station’s firefighting equipment to the test, the young carers also had a chance to meet police officers now based there, trying on some of their protective riot gear.

To cap the day off, children were given a full Christmas meal – provided by Sainsbury’s – and watched a festive panto at the Kings Theatre.

Rai Smith, 11, cares for his grandmother, who has cancer.

He said: ‘I loved every minute of today.’

This is the 24th year the firefighters have staged the Christmas event.

Firefighter Vince Nicoll, of Blue Watch, said: ‘These kids are all remarkable.

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‘They’re great little characters who deserve a day to let their hair down and be kids.

‘You wouldn’t believe it when you see them here just what sort of things they go through on a daily basis.’

Jane Steggall, of Portsmouth City Council’s young carers specialist service, said there are at least 1,200 children acting as carers in the city – although the true figure could be far greater than this.

Many support loved ones with a range of chores like cleaning or shopping, while others became the emotional rock of support for a parent going through a tough time.

Jane added: ‘Most of our children show huge amounts of resilience. They’re an inspiration to work with.

‘They’re selfless, caring and mature beyond their years.’