Catching up with Harrogate’s young carers- Tom Gordon joins Carers Resource at Corn Close Care Farm

Local MP Tom Gordon joined a group of young carers from Harrogate for a day out
at Corn Close Care Farm last week. The trip, which was kindly funded by The Rotary
Club of Knaresborough, allowed Tom and the group of youngsters to roll up their
sleeves to handle and learn about farm-yard animals.

The Care farm offers a variety of therapeutic activities from their small holding in
Nidderdale. Toasting marshmallows around the fire pit, the group enjoyed respite
from their busy schedules of juggling school while caring for loved ones.
Turning their hands to animal rearing, they learnt about the lambing process and the
opportunities available to gain recognised farming and animal care qualifications with
the organisation. They spoke to the MP about how tough it can be caring for a loved
one.

One of the participants, Benjy said: “I’ve got my GCSE’s coming up so coming here
and spending time with the lambs, guinea pigs and rabbits has been a break from
the additional stress.”

“It’s great to have people in important positions seeing us and hearing us.”

“We need this, this group, these times.”

Tom said:
“I’m inspired by these young people, the work they put in, they never stop. They
deserve these essential trips, and I’d encourage anyone to support and donate to
Carers Resource so they can keep running them.”

“My mum’s cancer diagnosis reshaped my live, motivating me to get into politics but
also requiring hands on care when I was younger, I studied part-time to spend time
at home looking after her and my sister. Making sure they’re heard is important to
me personally and advocating for carers is a Liberal Democrat priority.”