Male, aged 17
Although I’d been sailing before the difference about this experience was our watch leader and the group of young people. The watch leader was new to the role but he handled it really well.
At the start the group were very quiet, and I was the “social butterfly” which was a totally different role for me so that tested me but it all worked out well. The best thing about the trip for me was I learned a lot of practical skills. The one thing that’s been developed the most is my people skills.
Although I didn't show it, before I went on the trip I was shy. I suffered from social anxiety and would be paranoid about meeting new people and the fact that the voyage included people I didn’t know made me anxious. I feel that my confidence has taken a massive boost. Having to work both independently and having responsibility in the group was empowering.
You have in your head the thought that this yacht won’t go unless I do this task properly. So, the confidence comes from knowing that your contribution is important and other people are benefiting from your actions. Also seeing people happy and commenting positively on what you’re doing increases your confidence.
My caring responsibilities are quite complicated. My little sister has ADHD and some other issues. And because of my dad’s work pattern my mum will be taking my sister here, there, and everywhere - so I mainly look after my little brother. I make sure he’s all organised and take him to school.
There are occasions when my mum and dad aren’t there so I’m looking after both my little brother and sister. So, I’d be doing the washing, feeding the pets, making sure my sister has her medication. So, it varies, sometimes It feels like I’m doing everything but if we are all in the house I can get a break.
I’ve had a caring role since I was 12, just before I started High school. So, when I started I was usually late every day. This resulted it me getting pulled up a lot by the teachers because lateness goes on your personal record and if you get a certain amount of points against you they can kick you out the school. So, I had to explain the situation with my sister and my mum spoke to the school. At home sometimes the amount of responsibility hits you and it’s a lot to handle and I do lose it a wee bit and I shout at my brother and sister. But I regret it instantly. But having that level of responsibility at a young age is stressful. There’s so many expectations put on to you that it’s difficult to handle sometimes. It also had an impact on my social life, I didn’t have a lot of friends and because of the situation at home with my sister I’d be embarrassed to have people over.
One of the real benefits [of the voyage] for me was I had some time for myself.
STORIES OF YOUNG CARERS