A FREE Young Carers Fun Afternoon was held during half-term at Fairfield Community Centre, the home of Burgess Hill Youth in Burgess Hill.

It was a very successful event attended by 29 young carers aged 6-11 years.

Young carers are children and young people who help look after a member of the family who is sick, disabled or has mental health problems, or is misusing drugs or alcohol.

They may have direct caring responsibilities or may be someone whose life is affected as a result of living with someone who has these conditions.

With so many adult responsibilities, young carers often miss out on opportunities that other children have to play and learn.

The Fun Afternoon provided an opportunity for the young carers to have fun and try out a range of activities including a DJ workshop, cake decorating, art and crafts, much more.

The event was organised by Burgess Hill Youth and Burgess Hill Town Council.

Mustard Seed Café at St Edwards Church also supported the event by providing lunch for all attendees and Crossroads Care South Central attended the event and organised a cake decorating activity.

Burgess Hill Town Council Leader Pru Moore attended the event and said: “This is another great event we have organised for our young carers; they usually work quietly supporting their loved ones and are often hidden in our society, which is why Burgess Hill Town Council is committed to supporting them and providing opportunities for them to relax and have fun.”

Paul Myles, from Burgess Hill Youth, said: “It was great to see another good initiative come to fruition.”