Caring responsibilities often hinder a Young Carer’s ability to engage in social activities, leading to isolation and missed development opportunities. In partnership with Kent Young Carers and Crossroads, this programme offered three one-day family activity days during the summer 2024 school holidays.
Leeds Castle donated 12 family tickets to Kent Young Carers, allowing families to enjoy a day at the castle. The initiative included Young Carers, their families, and those they support, all of whom face various challenges, including financial strain exacerbated by medical needs. The stress of caregiving can negatively impact Young Carers and their relationships, highlighting the importance of shared activities.
While Young Carers often access support services, they rarely have opportunities for joint participation in activities. Facilitating family involvement in shared experiences has demonstrated significant benefits, fostering a sense of community and connection.
The programme welcomed a total of 88 guests across three events. Ahead of visiting, guests were asked their expectations of their visit;
- Excitement: “I’m really looking forward to this! I can’t wait to see what we are going to do.”
- Nervousness: “I’m feeling a bit anxious about this, as we do not know anyone”.”
- Curiosity: It’s something new for us having never been here before.”
- Apprehension: “I’m a bit apprehensive. There are a lot of unknowns, and I’m not sure what to expect.”
- Eagerness: “I’m eager to get started. I’ve been looking forward to this for a while.”
- Optimism: “I’m optimistic that this will be a great experience, and looking forward to the day. The rest of my family are not sure, we have never done this before I’m focusing on the positives.”
Each family day included a variety of activities across Leeds Castle, such as:
- Birds of Prey experience.
- Interactive arts and crafts sessions.
- Use of the Maze, Knights Stronghold playground, and surrounding areas.
- Time to explore the castle and grounds independently.
Key Findings & Outcomes
The programme yielded positive results, including:
- High Satisfaction: 100% of families reported having an enjoyable day.
- Improved Family Relationships: 80% of families reported improved relationships through quality time together.
- Increased Knowledge of Leeds Castle: 74% of families indicated increased knowledge and future visitation likelihood.
- Resilience Development: Families developed skills in overcoming obstacles.
- Self-Expression Opportunities: Activities provided a platform for self-expression and creativity. One young carer joined a local falconry club after the Birds of Prey activity.
- Sibling Bonding: Families reported strengthened sibling bonds, particularly those with siblings having special educational needs.
- Trying New Things: 89% of families reported trying new things, highlighting the positive impact of diverse activities.
Some family members initially perceived Leeds Castle as a venue for events like weddings and fireworks, rather than a family-friendly destination. Some participants felt apprehensive about the potential noise and crowds before attending. However, when asked how they felt about the activities experienced, the key themes from the feedback emphasised the friendliness of all the staff who supported the event. The warm welcome from the Castle staff was particularly noted. Families appreciated the variety of activities and felt that everyone was included;
- “The activities were enriching”
- “It was a very well planned day by the Imago team who were on hand to help and to chat to and the Leeds castle staff went out of their way to ask how I was and if they could help in any way as I was on crutches.”
- “The day was really well planned out”
- “Having the amazing outdoor area to ourselves for lunch, allowed the children some peaceful time- thank u”
- “Really great staff”
- “Very interesting – something for all the family”
What was the most fun about today?
The Birds of Prey talk was a highlight for over 80% of the families who attended; the families provided positive feedback regarding the Leeds Castle staff and their helpfulness and patience with their families, which reduced anxieties and enabled families to have fun.
- “It was great to see the bird so close. I loved the falconry”
- “All of it, the owls, the boat ride, the mini golf”
- “Learning about differing owls and what the birds eat!”
- “I learnt lots of new things about the birds and got to touch them gently”
- “My son loves history, and so the castle was a brilliant chance for him to find out about somewhere new”
The Kent Young Carers and Leeds Castle Family Fun Days 2024 programme successfully provided valuable respite, social opportunities, and positive experiences for young carers and their families. The positive feedback and key findings demonstrate the importance of similar initiatives to improve overall well-being and provide much-needed family time.
Using money raised by National Lottery players, The National Lottery Heritage Fund supports projects that connect people and communities with the UK’s heritage. This Audience Development programme was made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Funds. To learn more about funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund granted to help us shape a vision for the future at Leeds Castle, visit here.
