Young carers dally with a bit of drama

The Bagnor-based theatre teamed up with West Berkshire Council to host workshops at South Thatcham Children’s Centre for young carers throughout the summer holidays offering drama skills including improvisation, teamwork and characterisation.
The summer workshops involved working on a piece to perform to family and friends and other young carers, with chance to complete a Bronze Arts Award, by watching a performance, or an aspect of art, and reflecting on it.
Heidi Bird of the Watermill Theatre said the theatre was delighted to be involved and the young people seemed, she said, to be thoroughly enjoying themselves.
“We hope that this will be a very beneficial project for all involved”
West Berkshire councillor for children and young people, Irene Neill, said that young carers, who can be aged anything from five to 18, shoulder great responsibilities when most people of their age have none.
“They show a great deal of determination and courage. The Watermill is offering a wonderful opportunity for them to learn fun skills during their well-earned time-out periods.”
Young carers, whose average age is 12, carry out household chores such as washing, cooking, shopping and dressing because a family member is ill, or has a disability.
They may also give medicines, take care of household budgets and look after younger sisters and brothers.