Stephanie's story: finding balance on a hoverboard

Stephanie's story: finding balance on a hoverboard

Stephanie is 12 years old and helps care for both her mum and younger brother. Her mum lives with fibromyalgia, bipolar disorder, anxiety and depression, which means Stephanie often helps with everyday tasks around the home. She provides support by tidying, shopping, helping her mum get dressed on difficult days, and giving reassurance when her mum is feeling anxious or overwhelmed.

Stephanie also helps care for her brother, who has autism and global developmental delay. As a result, he requires additional support and encouragement with daily activities, and Stephanie often steps in to help whenever she can.

"My dad works and can be away for most of the day, from early in the morning until the evening. We work together the best that we can. Some days can be very difficult though."

As a young carer, Stephanie spends much of her time supporting her family and doesn't often get the opportunity to enjoy activities for herself. During conversations with her Young Carer Support Worker, Stephanie shared that she would love to spend more time outdoors with her friends. Several of her friends had hoverboards, and she had wanted one for a long time. Through a Time to Live microgrant, Stephanie was able to purchase a hoverboard, helmet and protective pads. The funding provided her with the opportunity to enjoy a hobby of her own and spend more time socialising with friends.

The hoverboard has encouraged Stephanie to get outdoors more regularly, helping her stay active and enjoy valuable time away from her caring responsibilities. It has also given her the chance to connect with friends and simply enjoy being a young person.

Having dedicated time away from caring responsibilities has had a positive impact on Stephanie's wellbeing. The hoverboard provides an important opportunity for respite, allowing her to switch off, have fun and focus on herself while remaining close to home.

Stephanie's dad said:

"I worried about Stephanie, but this support and having a hoverboard for herself was brilliant. We can work together because having this time with her friends is vital and gives her a break from home. It took a bit of persuading, but she understands it's okay to take some time for herself, as long as she takes care and wears her helmet all the time."

Find out more about Time to Live here.