Lila*, 11 years old, has been taking on caring responsibilities since she was 7. She was first referred to the local carers service by Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). Lila cares for her dad who has Asperger’s, ADHD and dyspraxia and her younger brother has recently been diagnosed with ADHD.
“Although I like making sculptures and models, I don’t get the chance to go to art clubs after school because I have to look after my dad and brother.”
Lila
In Nottingham, Lila took part in Create’s workshops for young carers where they made 3D sculptures inspired by the local area. Their sculptures then formed the basis for the design of a large-scale public mural for the local shopping centre, intu Victoria.
“This is the first art project I’ve done with other carers. Although I like making sculptures and models, I don’t get the chance to go to art clubs after school because I have to look after my dad and brother.
“At school I feel much less confident in my own abilities. I always feel like I’m not doing it right. I never thought I was able to draw very well so always felt nervous about even trying. Create makes me feel good about my work and want to share what I’ve done. Before the project started I thought my art would be, on a scale of one to ten, about a two but now – I don’t want to be immodest – I think it would be a seven!
“I’m still a bit nervous about the unveiling of the mural. I’m excited for it to be there but I’m anxious about what people will think. I hoping my family will be really proud because I’ve got a piece of work out there. If I have children and it’s still there, they can see it too. The next thing I would love to do would be to learn how to play the guitar.”
*name changed to protect anonymity