Lower Sixth students at Carers' Day

The Carers’ Day at Burgess Hill School for Girls was held on the 24^th of March 2009. Initially, when we were told about the plans to hold the event we jumped at the chance to initiate a new day which would benefit the community. We were both excited and enthusiastic about the opportunity, however we realized there would be a lot of hard work, which was all worth it in the end.

The idea was a joint initiative between the Burgess Hill Help Point, Mrs Laybourn, Deputy Head of the school and Crossroads. We held regular meetings and created a committee, to bring this fantastic idea to life. The committee consisted of Mrs Laybourn, representatives from Burgess Hill Town Council, Crossroads and Friends of Carers’ and a group of students who had volunteered. From the very beginning it was clear that we all shared the same enthusiasm and excitement to create a special day and it was an inspiring and dedicated committee to be part of. Our shared goal was to create an enjoyable day for Carers in our community, where they could take a break from their hard work and enjoy a day of relaxation and pampering.   

During the process, what we had initially thought was an event to organize became much more.  We learnt about the Carers and the incredible work they do, which we had previously not appreciated, and how much such an event would mean to them. This was more than an event, this was a special day dedicated to Carers. We also learnt about our community, and some of the brilliant organizations and people who work to try and improve it. It was great to watch an idea come to life and all the steps we went through.

The team held fortnightly meetings from September, deciding on everything from times, to entertainment, to the activities to have on offer. We drafted and designed letters, questionnaires and posters. We contacted organizations locally, inviting them to complete a short questionnaire as to what activities they would enjoy. Central to the plans was what the Carers wanted, as this was, after all, a day for them.  We collated the feedback and our programme of the day began to take shape, which was exciting.  We contacted the Carers with information and sent invitations.  We then began to finalise details and print out quizzes, programmes and posters. The process and plans were suddenly taking shape and the realisation hit us that it was nearly the day. We were thrilled with the response from local businesses who generously offered their services both on the day and donations for the raffle. 

After months of planning and preparation, the day was finally here.  Everyone was filled with excitement for what would we all hoped would be a successful day.  We ran around in the morning, putting the finishing touches to the venue, making sure everything was exactly right. The information stands around Croft Hall began to fill with representatives from local businesses and organisations who kindly gave up their time to share information with the Carers. We were positioned at the ‘greeting’ table and at the ‘booking and information’ table. With everything ready, we both waited with excitement for our first guest. We were also nervous, hoping that what we had planned would be enough and that our guests would enjoy themselves, which was the most important part.

The day really began when the first Carers arrived at 11am for their day of relaxation, pampering and enjoyment, free of charge. Many Carers had booked, but there was a ‘drop in’ option as well, as all Carers in the community were welcome. On arrival each Carer was introduced to one of the girls from Burgess Hill School, who had volunteered their time, and they spent the day together sharing the wide range of activities on offer. Friendships were made, and both the Carers and the girls enjoyed the day and the company. 

Throughout the day there were many activities, for example the Nintendo Wii, which proved extremely popular, and  carpet bowls. Pamper sessions were held, such as nail care, reflexology, head and shoulder massages and hair dressing.  The Carers were also treated to a variety of talks, for example, a colourful gardening talk, which was very visual with wonderful bright flower displays, which the Carers were able to take home. Refreshments were served throughout the day and lunch was served with a musical interlude. To finish the fantastic day off we held a raffle where many wonderful prizes were won, and the results of the earlier quiz were revealed. The Carers left the day with many leaflets and pieces of information, but also with a great experience and, most importantly, having had a rest.

Our highlights of the day were to see the Carers smiling and laughing with the girls and enjoying the activities. Their responses and comments at the end of the day made the preparation worth it. It was wonderful to leave feeling that we had achieved something, and given some invaluable people a day they deserved. One visitor commented, “Everything had been thought out to make us feel special.  The charming girls who looked after us, the kind ladies offering massage reflexology, the demonstrations, delicious lunch, a whole hour of real music made it a day to remember.  Even the Wii to bring us up to date with the grandchildren!”.

We, too, were enriched by the process, as we feel we not only learnt how to create an event from the start, but about the local community and the Carers. To see this brilliant idea come to life has been fantastic. We feel very proud of what we have achieved for the Carers. We would like to thank everyone involved for making the day such a success. This was a truly special day, for very special people, and we hope to continue this as an annual event in the hope that many more people will come and enjoy the experience.

13/03/09

By Gwenllian Williams and Emma Bonney

Lower Sixth at Burgess Hill School for Girls