Zara's story: drumming up confidence

Zara's story: drumming up confidence

Zara is a dedicated young carer who supports both her parents and her younger brother. Her mum lives with physical disabilities and significant mobility challenges, and her brother is autistic and requires daily support. Zara’s responsibilities are wide‑ranging and constant. She helps her parents with everyday tasks such as washing, dressing, cooking, and shopping. She also provides emotional reassurance and practical help to keep the household running smoothly. For her brother, Zara assists with personal care and feeding. She also plays a vital role in managing interactions, often taking him out of the house to give her parents a much‑needed break. This support requires sensitivity, patience, and maturity.

Despite all she does, Zara rarely gets time for herself. Even during school holidays her caring duties continue, leaving little space to rest or simply enjoy being a teenager. Although she occasionally attends a young carers' music group, building friendships or social connections outside her family is difficult. Music, however, has always been her safe space and her escape.

With a Time to Live microgrant, Zara finally purchased something she had dreamed of for a long time - her own electric drum kit.

The impact has also reached beyond Zara. Her family sees how much calmer and happier she feels when she plays, and they are proud to support something that clearly nourishes her.

The drum kit has not only strengthened her wellbeing but has also helped deepen family understanding of her needs as a young carer.

Find out more about Time to Live here.