Kate’s Story

Kate aged 17, from Carlisle, is a major carer for her younger brother, who has Down’s Syndrome – and this is what inspired her to devote a significant amount of her spare time to working with young people who have learning disabilities.

To date, she has completed over 100 hours of voluntary work, mainly with the local ‘Able to Play’ scheme. Indeed, the Mencap organisers have been so impressed with Kate’s commitment that they have done all they can to involve her even more with the project. She is determined to help young people develop outlets for their thoughts and feelings, even if they cannot adequately express themselves in words.

At school, Kate also mentors younger students and is a popular and respected prefect. She is a mentor to vulnerable younger students, and she is involved in anti-bullying work. As one of her teachers says, “her enthusiasm and sheer drive impress us all.”

The Diana Award has given Kate a huge amount of encouragement to continue her work. She is an inspiration to us all.