Jamal's story: modelling a break from caring

Jamal's story: modelling a break from caring

Jamal is a young carer who provides support to both his mum, who experiences mental health challenges, and his sister, who has cerebral palsy. As a result, he often takes on responsibilities that can be emotionally and physically demanding for someone his age.

Despite the pressures of his caring role, Jamal has a strong creative passion. He loves making videos using clay models and dreams of one day sharing his animations online with a wider audience.

Following discussions with his mum and his Young Carer Support Worker, Jamal was supported to access a Time to Live microgrant. The aim was to encourage his creativity while also giving him opportunities to take meaningful breaks from his caring responsibilities. The grant funded a camcorder, ring light, clay, and modelling tools to help him develop his animation hobby.

“It meant I could enjoy this activity and focus on it, and I really enjoyed making the clay models and then making the animations.”

Having access to this equipment has allowed Jamal to develop new skills, build confidence, and spend quality time doing something he enjoys. It has also provided a positive outlet that helps reduce some of the anxiety and worries he experiences about his mum's and sister's health.

Jamal's mum also shared her appreciation.

“Thank you so much for helping him fulfil a dream he has had for quite a while.” 

This grant has given Jamal the opportunity to focus on something he loves, express his creativity, and enjoy valuable time for himself. Most importantly, it has reminded him that while he spends so much time caring for others, his own needs, interests and dreams matter too.

Find out more about Time to Live here.