Young carer steps up to raise charity cash
ATEENAGER who is a young carer for her dad has organised a sponsored walk to raise funds for a charity which supports carers like her in Stockport.
Alisha Routledge, who lives in Hazel Grove with her father, who has spinal cord compression, juggles caring for him alone with studying for a Level 3 BTEC at Marple Sixth Form College.
The 17-year-old, who has been elected as a MYP (Member of Youth Parliament) representing Stockport, undertook the sponsored walk along Fred Perry Way, covering just over 13 miles, to raise money and awareness of SignPost Stockport for Carers.
The independent charity provides information and support to carers in the Stockport area, in a bid to improve their quality of life and raise awareness of their contribution to society.
Alisha takes sole responsibility for cooking and cleaning the house and for ensuring that her dad has any medication and equipment he needs to hand.
She said: “Being a career for my dad is rewarding in some areas, however it can be challenging and draining, having that constant worry when you are away from your parent that you care for. In the past it has affected my studies, however I manage to stay ahead at the moment through full commitment and hard work throughout the year.”
Alongside Alisha, who has been her dad’s carer for five years, trekked Steve and Alex Davies of Stockport Youth Partnership, a group which aims to give young people a voice. They were joined for part of the walk by Hannah Thompson and Katy Frankland, members of staff at SignPost.
The trek, which took six hours, has so far raised £400 in sponsorship and donations via Alisha’s Just Giving page.
The money will be used by SignPost to fund residential trips and group projects for young carers, in order to give them a break from their caring roles at home.
Alisha said: “I decided to start this campaign because I have seen first hand the inspirational and life-changing work this charity manages to deliver to hundreds of young people who pass through this service each year. My dad is proud of all I have achieved given all of the barriers I have faced throughout my life.
“I feel proud to have completed the walk and raised money for such an amazing and worthy cause.”