We’ve worked with more than 350 young carers during 2014 and are celebrating the achievements of the 200 from London with a month-long exhibition at KPMG’s headquarters in Canary Wharf, a story that both Sky News and ITV have covered.
My City ~ My Life showcases artwork by young carers that explores their identities and experiences within the urban environment. Carers from Kingston, Redbridge and Southwark worked with our professional photographers Alicia Clarke, Tracey Fahy and Adele Watts over the summer in intensive workshops that enabled them to create a portfolio of stunning, thought-provoking photographs.
Alongside the photographs is a series of sculptures produced by young carers from Merton. Working with our artist Sheridan Quigley, they painted different sides of their personality onto cardboard cut-outs which then slot together to make a 3D piece of work.
Additionally, mini-films are being shown around the KPMG foyer, whilst their longer features were showcased at our exclusive preview last week, which was attended by more than 30 young carers and family members. These are also available to view over on our YouTube site.
There are around 700,000 young carers in the UK, of whom almost 21% spend more than 50 hours a week caring for a family member with a long-term illness or disability. They regularly miss school and can face challenges when they do attend classes, 25% being bullied. Our art:space and inspired:arts programmes work with these vulnerable young people to enable them to take a break from their caring responsibilities, meet peers in a safe, friendly environment, and most importantly, have fun!
This story is from 2014.