Nominations are now open for the Bedford Independent Everyday Heroes Awards 2024 in partnership with The Harpur Trust, and one of the awards recognises the incredible young people in Bedford Borough who dedicate their time to caring for a loved one.
There are an estimated 800,000 young carers aged 5-17 in the UK, many of whom take on responsibilities well beyond their years.
Whether helping a parent, sibling, or family member with daily tasks, providing emotional support, or taking on household duties, these young carers often put others before themselves with little recognition.
This award, sponsored by Heart Academies Trust, is one of the most emotive categories each year. It highlights the strength, resilience, and kindness of young people who make personal sacrifices to care for those who need them.
Nominate here – all nominations must be received by midnight on 16 March 2025
Recognising young carers in Bedford Borough
To be nominated for this award, the carer must be under 18. Being a child or teenager is challenging enough, but for young carers, life comes with additional responsibilities that many of their peers do not have to think about.
While they may carry out the same tasks as an adult carer, young carers often take on extra household duties, such as cooking, cleaning, and looking after younger siblings, while also balancing school and personal time. Many provide physical and emotional support to a parent or relative who needs help with dressing, moving around, or coping with day-to-day life.
Young carers rarely seek recognition, but their impact is immense, and this award exists to celebrate their dedication and compassion.
A remarkable role model
Last year’s winner, Andreea Balan, was recognised for the selfless care she provides for her non-verbal younger brother while also supporting her mother with a newborn. Before heading to school each day, Andreea cleans the house and walks her brother to school, always putting herself last and never wanting to be a bother to anyone.
She is a shining example of the dedication young carers show every day, often without people outside their immediate family realising the sacrifices they make.
Nominate here – all nominations must be received by midnight on 16 March 2025
Community support for young carers
David Morris from Heart Academies Trust, who are sponsoring this year’s award, emphasised the importance of recognising young carers for their extraordinary efforts.
“It is always incredible to see what young carers do and what is asked of them. We have been amazed in all of our schools by how our young carers are able to care for others at home while also looking after themselves and, at the same time, often excelling at school.
“Young carers need to be recognised and applauded because they are truly remarkable, and this is why we take so much pleasure in sponsoring this award.”
Several other category sponsors also donate gifts to ensure every young carer nominated receives something special. Local businesses interested in supporting this should contact Julia Course to contribute.
These young carers do so much for others now is the time to show them how much they are valued.
Deadline extension for nominations
The deadline for nominations has been extended, meaning there is still time to put forward a young carer who deserves recognition.
Read: Bedford Independent Everyday Heroes Awards nominations extended
The Bedford Independent Everyday Heroes Awards 2025, held in partnership with The Harpur Trust, will take place on Thursday, 1 May at The Quarry Theatre, hosted by Bedford School.
To submit a nomination, fill in the form at the end of this article or visit: Everyday Heroes 2025 Nomination Form.
This year’s categories include:
- Young Carer of the Year (Heart Academies Trust): Recognising young carers under 18 for their dedication. (2023 winner: Andreea Balan)
- Volunteer of the Year (Harpur Trust): Celebrating those who give their time selflessly. (2023 winner: Akaal Seva)
- Excellence in Education (Bedford School): Honouring teachers, coaches, and educators who inspire and uplift young minds. (2023 winner: Faye McKinney)
- Raising the Profile of Bedford Borough (The Quarry Theatre): For individuals or teams who put Bedford on the map. (New award)
- Pride in Bedford Borough (Bedford Radio): Recognising those who make Bedford a better place to live, work, and play. (New award)
- Young Achiever (up to age 13) – (Maths Circle/Times Tables Rock Stars): For an individual aged 13 or under who has achieved over and above the expected. (2023 winner: Lola Bracey)
- Young Achiever (14-21) (Bedford Heights): Celebrating young people making a significant impact. (2023 winner: Charlie Faulkner)
- Youth Voice (Bedford Giving): A brand-new award recognising young people or organisations advocating for under-18s.
- Fundraiser of the Year (Individual) (Woodfines Solicitors) Rewarding those who have raised funds for a good cause. 2023 winner: Liz Simmonds
- Fundraiser of the Year (Team) (White Hart Press): Rewarding those who have raised funds for a good cause. (2023 winner: David Donnelly’s team)
- Unsung Hero (Brewpoint): For those making a quiet but significant impact. (2023 winner: Christian Coley)
