Inaya's story: fun and friendship

Inaya's story: fun and friendship

At just 16-years-old, Inaya helps care for her elderly grandparents and supports her mum, who experiences mental health challenges. Her grandfather is also living with dementia, which can make life at home particularly demanding. Alongside school, Inaya takes on a range of caring responsibilities, often leaving her with little free time to relax or spend with friends.

While Inaya is proud to support her family, balancing caring responsibilities with being a teenager can sometimes feel overwhelming.

"I don't mind helping to look after my mum and grandparents, and we do have some good times together. It's just that spending time with my friends outside of school isn't always easy." 

Through her local carers' centre and young carers' group, Inaya receives ongoing support to help her manage the challenges of caring. As part of the Time to Live voucher scheme, she received Nando's vouchers, giving her the opportunity to meet up with friends without worrying about the cost.

For many young carers, social opportunities can be limited by their responsibilities at home and concerns about family finances. The vouchers allowed Inaya to take a break from her caring role, enjoy time with her friends, and take part in activities that many young people take for granted.

"I already get great support from the carers' centre, and we always have a great laugh at the young carers' group. Receiving the Nando's voucher meant I could meet up with my friends after school when we finished for the summer holidays. Being able to join in was brilliant. The vouchers meant my mum didn't have to worry about the cost, and they were really easy to use."

The vouchers gave Inaya the chance to relax, strengthen friendships, and enjoy a sense of normality away from the responsibilities of caring. Spending quality time with her peers helped boost her confidence and wellbeing, while reducing some of the pressures that can come with being a young carer. Inaya's experience highlights the importance of providing young carers with opportunities to take a break, connect with friends, and enjoy positive experiences that support their emotional wellbeing.

Find out more about Time to Live here.