A TEENAGE girl from Rubery who helps to look after her mum and dad has raised more than £63 to support fellow young carers, by hosting a ‘dress-down’ event at her school.

Naoimi Steadman, 16, receives support from the YSS charity to help her look after her mum who has long-term illness Rheumatoid Arthritis, and her dad who suffers from depression.

The teen held the event for Year 12 and 13 pupils at her school, Waseley Hills High, with more than 70 students donating money to wear their pyjamas or casual clothes at school.

Naoimi, who has received support from YSS’s Worcestershire Young Carers scheme for more than three years, said: “A lot of my friends and teachers still find a stigma attached to the label of being a carer.

“I wanted to take the opportunity to raise awareness of what it means to be a young carer and to raise money to support other people in my situation.

“Mum has had arthritis for several years and she will have it until she dies. It limits her with certain activities like walking or standing for long periods of time.

“My role changes throughout the year due to cold and bad weather affecting her joints more than usual, so helping her to keep warm and making sure she takes pain killers is really important.

“I also remind Dad to take his medication and I try to cheer him up. I try not to be a grumpy teenager but sometimes I can’t help it.”

The money will be used to help pay for clubs and activities for young carers in Worcestershire.

Lorraine Preece, Chief Executive at YSS, said: “I’d like to say a huge thank you to Naomi for organising a brilliant fundraising event and for raising such a fantastic donation.”