With nominations now open for the 2025 ‘Everyday Hero Awards’, there’s no better time than now to look back on previous winners and celebrate all their achievements and hard work.
In 2024, Charlie Lloyd, 16, received the ‘Young Carer Award’ for “caring for his mum with multiple chronic conditions and five siblings with autism, while maintaining good grades at school.”
Read: A night to remember with Borough’s Everyday Heroes recognised as the “spirit of Bedford”
The 16-year-old, who has been caring for his mum for five years, has been very humble about his award.
“There’s probably a lot more people doing a lot more than me. Bedford is a big place, and it’s not like I’m doing the most in the world,” he said.
“No one else is going to help, so I might as well. It’s just sort of living for me. It has its challenges, but it’s not like the hardest thing in the world,” said Charlie.
The award is hung up in the family’s front room, and every day it is a reminder of all the work Charlie is putting in at such a young age, caring for mum and balancing the responsibilities of being a young carer alongside his studies.
“It just feels rewarding – like I’ve done all of this and to be finally recognised for it feels good,” explained the 16-year-old.
Sixth Form studies
Charlie is currently in Sixth Form, studying A Level Biology, Chemistry, and Level 3 Social Care, with plans to go to university after his studies, all whilst caring for his mum.
The young carer added, “It’s not easy; not everyone is cut out for it. It’s just life for most people. Some people have to take on that role, and not everyone chooses it, but it is just part of life.
“It’s the sort of underlying stress that comes with it. Just when people depend on you, it takes a toll on you,” added Charlie.
The Bedford Independent Everyday Hero Awards are returning once again next year, with nominations now open to recognise those in our community who go above and beyond for the people of Bedford.
Make your nomination through our simple-to-fill-in form below or here and help say “thank you” to the unsung heroes in our local community who go the extra mile to make a difference in Bedford.
