I am a very proud member of Barnardo's Northern Ireland staff team, and have been with the charity since I was 17 when I started off as a volunteer.  I've worked for a variety of different children's services throughout my time and have met so many amazing people along the way.  The inspirational stories from children, young people and families as well as the over and above dedication from our staff and volunteers are the main reasons I've decided to jump off the Europa hotel to raise some hard cash! 

All money raised will go to Barnardo's.  More specifically half of the money I raise will go directly to the children's service I currently work for, which is the young carers' service. 

Young carers are children and young people who care for a relative at home who is unwell, has a disability, has mental health problems or who has alcohol/drug problems. Their day to day life responsibilities often include cooking, cleaning, shopping, ensuring safety, assessing and dealing with moods/behaviours, providing medical and personal care as well as providing emotional support.  With so many adult responsibilities young carers can often miss out on opportunities that other children have to play and learn. They can become isolated, with little/no relief from the pressures at home.

Barnardo's NI Young Carer's Service provides a listening ear and much needed time out for these children and young people.  They can talk to their project worker as well as meet with other young carers in a structured or fun environment within their community to lessen the feelings of loneliness and to ultimately support them in reaching their full potential.  

Thanks so much for visiting my page and hopefully I've swayed you to donate and to give what you can :) Go on, go on, go on...........

PS - Thanks to my crazy cousin Brian (in the photo) for 'showing me the ropes' at my wee practice session.  Sure the Europa's only about 50x higher than that climbing wall....no big deal...!!!