A Space That's About Me: Arthur's Story - Centre 33 launches 2025 Winter Appeal

Arthur has more to think about than most 12-year-olds. As well as keeping up with school and friends, he also cares for his two brothers, who live with a rare, life-limiting genetic condition.

He helps get the boys ready for school, dinner and bed, describes places and activities to help them navigate their loss of sight and is often their go-to when they need someone to talk to. Watch his full story below.

Arthur isn’t alone. Across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, more than 25,000 young carers aged 11 to 16 care for a family member with an illness, disability, mental health condition or addiction. Many feel hidden and isolated. They often miss out on opportunities, take more days off school than their peers and find it hard to build friendships.

Arthur loves looking after his brothers, but it isn't always easy and he does worry. He struggles to find time to himself, making normal things like going to the park with friends more difficult.

To make sure he had support, his mum Sarah turned to Centre 33, where he met his project worker Amanda. Centre 33 gave Arthur a space to talk about his worries and feelings and a chance to meet other young carers on group activities. We also helped him navigate the difficult transition to secondary school. Sarah says Arthur has “flourished ever since” first coming to Centre 33.

We have shared Arthur’s story in our 2025 Winter Appeal, A Space That’s About Me: Arthur’s Story, to highlight the challenges facing young carers and the impact of flexible, holistic support. You can watch it above, or click here.

Arthur said: “I feel really happy when I come to Centre 33. I can just speak freely and not have any pressure on myself because now I know I'm not the only person who struggles. It makes me feel like I belong. Centre 33 gave me a space that's just about me.”

Beth Green, Chief Executive Officer at Centre 33, said: “Giving young carers a space to focus on their own feelings, meet other young people with caring roles and find practical support to navigate challenges can make an incredible difference. They tell us they feel listened to, seen and able to take steps towards a brighter and more confident future.”

Last year, 83% of young carers who came to Centre 33 said they felt less isolated after support. Read more about our impact.

Are you a young carer? You are not alone and support is available. Visit one of our five drop-in hubs, contact us via phone, email or message or read more about our support for young carers.

You can watch Arthur’s full story here. To donate, click here.

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