Isle Of Wight Young Carers Treated To Spin In A Supercar At Christmas Party 

Young carers from across the Isle of Wight experienced the once-in-a-lifetime thrill of cruising in a supercar during a Christmas celebration on Saturday (14 December). 

More than 70 young people supported by Barnardo’s Isle of Wight Young Carers Service – which works with those under 18 who help to care for a household family member, for reasons such as disability or long-term illness – were given the unique opportunity by sports and classic car enthusiasts, Sporting Bears Motor Club.

The fun-filled day was rounded off with a visit from Father Christmas, who continued the motoring theme by arriving in a replica of the classic car, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Each young carer and their siblings were gifted a Christmas present, donated through the Isle of Wight Radio Toy Appeal.

Barnardo’s Isle of Wight Assistant Director of Children’s Services, Laura Groves, said:

“Our Young Carers Christmas Party is always such as an exciting and memorable occasion, and Saturday’s celebration was no different.

“It was wonderful to see the young people we support enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime dream ride in a supercar with their families, allowing them to spend precious time together.

"The event wouldn’t be what it is without the time and dedication of the Sporting Bears who, for more than 10 years, have given dozens of our young carers an extraordinary day they will remember for the rest of their lives.

“The Barnardo’s Isle of Wight Young Carers service gives crucial support to children who provide essential care for a member of their family. Without this support, we know that young carers can struggle or find it difficult to cope with the demands of their responsibilities.

"Being a young carer can affect a child’s education and health, so providing targeted or one-to-one support for those that need it, along with a chance to meet other young people in a similar position, or taking part in fun activities, can make the world of difference.” 

Andy Lee, Sporting Bears Motor Club Regional Organiser, Isle of Wight, added:

“This is a much-loved event in the calendar by all drivers and volunteers involved. It is a delight to see the enjoyment of the families the event brings.

“We had a fantastic time, which is made possible by the support of Wightlink in the community, for enabling the mainland Bears to attend, The Blue Door Café for providing a stunning lunch, and the donation of selection boxes from a local business community fund for all the children.”

Sporting Bears – or the ‘bears’ as they are affectionately known – are a dedicated group of classic and sports car enthusiasts that raise money for children’s charities and support other charities with dream rides.

Since the Club was formed in 1989, the Sporting Bears have raised over £3million for children’s charities in the UK, and have eight regional groups in England, with one based on the Isle of Wight.

Advice and more information about the Barnardo’s Isle of Wight Young Carers Service is available at: isleofwightfamilycentres.org.uk/support-for-young-carers