Young first aiders show the way

Four young people from Skye, who all have significant caring responsibilities for relatives at home, still make their time and skills available to others in need.

Young carers Robert (17), Craig (17), Ben (16) and Nicola (15) are also Red Cross volunteers, regularly providing first aid at public events.

Services manager Anne Eadie said: “They’re always keen and enthusiastic, despite their demanding duties at home, which can leave them excluded and isolated from normal teenage life.”

With support from the Red Cross, the four also help teach first aid skills in schools and their young carers’ group.

First aid support

Young carer Robert MacLean (16), from Uig on Skye, decided to become a volunteer after being trained in first aid skills by the Red Cross.

He said: “I’ve been with the Red Cross about two years now and really enjoy it. I started out doing the first aid awareness sessions and then decided to get more involved.

“It’s a really good thing to do. You get a lot out of it, and it provides a chance to get out the house and work with some really great people. Learning first aid is an extra skill and it really builds up your confidence.”