Callum's story: assembling a computer and a break

Callum's story: assembling a computer and a break

Callum, 18, is a young adult carer for his father, who lives with multiple sclerosis and diabetes. Callum's caring responsibilities include attending to his dad's needs, as well as cooking, cleaning, housework and many other day-to-day tasks. While Callum is happy to spend time with his father and support him when needed, he also recognised the importance of having time for himself to relax, recharge and focus on his own interests.

To help create that balance, Callum applied for a microgrant to support his hobby of building a computer. The project gave him something positive to focus on outside of his caring role, while also creating valuable opportunities to spend quality time with his father, who previously worked with computers and shared an interest in the project.

"It gave me and my father a project to work on together. He used to work with computers, and I'm keen to do this as a career in the future."

The microgrant helped Callum purchase a range of computer components and parts, including RAM, a graphics card, cooling components and accessories.

"After the computer is built, I'll be able to use it for many purposes, like playing games with friends, learning new skills and supporting my college studies. Overall, the whole thing has given me a chance to take some time out, learn new things and develop skills that will still be useful for my future"

Having access to a dedicated hobby and personal space has had a significant positive impact on Callum's mental wellbeing. The project has allowed him to take regular breaks from caring, build skills for the future, maintain social connections with friends, and enjoy meaningful time with his father through a shared interest. 

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