Lap for Carers scheme launched at King's Lynn get-together

Dozens of young carers gathered together to enjoy a break from their work and launch a new awareness initiative.

A Cake for Carers event, organised by the carers themselves, was held at the Forward Day Centre in Lynn on Saturday.

The event, which was staged with the support of officials from West Norfolk Carers and the regional Carers Trust, also saw the unveiling of a new Lap for Carers scheme for the public to show their support.

Many attendees helped launch the project by attempting to complete the fastest possible MarioKart lap, but support worker Emma Kandjou said the lap could encorporate any activity.

She said: "Carers say they often feel like they are going around in circles trying to get support and so the idea of lap for carers came from carers themselves and it asks schools, businesses or individuals themselves just to do a lap.

"It could be of a running track, or a walk round their local park or even a swimming pool and is a really simple way for people to get on board with supporting young carers and is an easy way to raise some money to support family carers across Norfolk."

Anyone interested in getting involved should contact West Norfolk Carers on social media using the hashtag #LapForCarers.

Several organisations including Lynn's Ladies Circle donated cakes for the event.

The group also helped to judge the entries in a West Norfolk Bake-Off contest, alongside borough councillor Lesley Bambridge.

Mrs Kandjou said: "Working with Carers Trust CPN on this event has been fantastic and I'm thrilled so many carers enjoyed the event and were able to take time out from their caring roles.

"It is vital for family carers to have opportunities like this to maintain their own well-being and celebrate the care they provide."

Mrs Bambridge added: "It was a great pleasure to be part a wonderful event, seeing everyone smiling and enjoying themselves."