The Honeypot Children's Charity, which offers support to vulnerable children and young carers, is the new official domestic charity partner of the England Footballers Foundation.
The England players chose to support Honeypot to help break down the stigma of being a young carer and highlight the amount of responsibility that these children face on a daily basis.
“Honeypot really stood out because of the vital work they do to help vulnerable youngsters.”
Gary Cahill England vice-captain
The partnership, which will run until after the 2016 UEFA European Championship, will help raise awareness of the charity and reach more families in need of support.
England vice-captain Gary Cahill spent time at the charity’s respite centre, Honeypot House, meeting eight-year-old James, who is a huge England fan.
James cares for his older brother Terrence who has Autism and ADHD.
This means James is often responsible for watching Terrence play, helping him go to the toilet and keeping him safe when his mum needs a rest.
Cahill said: “The lads looked at many incredible charities. Honeypot really stood out because of the vital work they do to help vulnerable youngsters like James who often miss out on their own childhood.
"Honeypot provides breaks and support throughout the year which is so important.”
Andros Townsend and Harry Kane also met with 10-year-old Charlie, who is the primary carer for her mum and five-year-old sister.
The Three Lions and Spurs duo visited Charlie and her family at home, where she told them more about her daily routine helping her mum.
Charlie said: “I help my mum by doing the cooking, cleaning and washing, but I also look after my little sister, making sure that she has had a bath and I’ve read her a story.
"Before I go to bed I make sure my mum has taken her tablets and then I do my homework before I go to sleep.”
Kane added: “Meeting Charlie has really helped me understand why Honeypot is so vital.
"There are children as young as five who are the main carer for their parent or sibling and that’s shocking. Without them many of these children would have no support at all; it’s why the squad want to do as much as we can to help.”
Harry Kane and Charlie
Simmi Woodwal, CEO of Honeypot, said: "We're absolutely delighted to be working with the EFF. The players support has been fantastic and we’re only just starting our work together.
"For a small charity, this really is a dream come true! We are very much looking forward to an exciting partnership".
The England Footballer’s Foundation was established in 2007 on behalf of the England squad following the team’s decision to donate their match fees and time to chosen charity partners. Since its inception, the EFF has raised almost £4million.
For more information visit www.englandfootballersfoundation.com or www.honeypot.org.uk.
