This initiative is so much more than just a collection of presents—it's a powerful affirmation that our dedicated young people are seen, valued, and appreciated by their local community.

The Generosity of Year 9 Students

This year's drive was organized and brought to life by the generous Year 9 students and their families at Lancing College. They put together an overwhelming donation of 31 thoughtfully assembled gift bags for our Young Carers.

We were honored to receive these beautiful gifts from Father Justin, the Chaplain at Lancing College, who presented them to our Youth Work Manager. The bags were filled with an array of high-quality and heartfelt items: everything from luxury toiletries and make-up to games, lovely stationery, chocolates, and even valuable gifts like a Lego Batman set! The level of care and consideration that went into selecting each item truly reflects the compassionate spirit of the students and their families

Why These Gifts Mean So Much

Our Young Carers show incredible resilience, dedicating much of their time to caring for family members. These daily responsibilities often mean they miss out on the simple joys and recognition other young people experience. Our Young Carers Youth Worker, Nic Reeves, put it perfectly: "To receive this level of kindness from Lancing College for the third year running makes an immense difference. Our Young Carers dedicate so much of their time to others; these gifts provide a moment of joy and recognition of their strength. Last year, a Young Carer who received a bottle of Dior perfume told us it was the best gift they had ever received. It shows them that they are seen, valued and deserving of being cared for themselves."

These gifts provide a vital break and a moment to feel special. We will be distributing them during our dedicated Young Carers programme, which provides confidential, one-to-one support to help improve self-confidence and overall wellbeing for young carers in Lancing and Sompting.



A Deepening Community Partnership

This continuous support is a powerful example of community partnership in action. As Father Justin, Chaplain at Lancing College, shared: "As a Christian community, it's at the heart of who we are to partner with charities like Electric Storm in supporting the young carers of Lancing and Sompting, whose hard work and sacrifice often goes unseen. Our Year 9 students and their families have shown that even small acts of generosity can speak volumes... it is a privilege for us to stand alongside you and share Christmas with you in this way.”

We extend our biggest, warmest, and most sincere THANK YOU to Father Justin, the phenomenal Year 9 students, and all the generous families at Lancing College. Your compassion embodies the spirit of community and helps ESY fulfil our mission of ‘Supporting young people now, laying foundations for the future’.

Thank you for helping us bring a little light and joy into the lives of our incredible Young Carers this year!