A teenager from Perivale who was shortlisted for a national young carers award has been named the winner for his dedication to supporting his autistic younger brother and his mother, who has type 1 diabetes.
Raphael Chiwandire, 14, won the sibling category at disability charity Contact’s annual awards ceremony on Monday (24 November 2026). The event, held at the House of Lords and attended by more than 100 guests including MPs and families, celebrates the achievements of young people who care for disabled children across the UK.
Raphael was recognised for the support he provides to his younger brother Sanchez, who is autistic, and for the care he offers his mother, Nyasha. Judges noted that he often begins his day early to help his family prepare for school and work, while also managing routines and offering reassurance at home. He has also raised money for charities supporting young people with health conditions.
Nyasha, who nominated her son for the award, said: “Raphael’s love, resilience and quiet strength inspire me beyond words. I am so proud of the young man he is becoming.”
Speaking to Ealing News after the ceremony, Raphael said: “Winning the Sibling Award at the House of Lords Contact Awards 2025 means so much to me. I never expected anything like this.”
He said: “Being a young carer isn’t just something I do. It’s something that’s shaped who I am today. Helping my mum and my brother is not easy and some days are hard, and it can feel like there’s a lot on my shoulders. But whenever I start to feel overwhelmed, I just look at my mum and remember why I do it. Even when she’s tired, she always finds a way to be there for me and my brother.”
He added: “My brother Sanchez, who has autism, sees the world differently and I’ve learned to see the world through his eyes too. I’ve learnt to understand him and his needs. I love him so much and I just want him to feel safe, understood and never judged. When he smiles it makes me so happy.
“This award makes me feel seen in a way I didn’t expect. Young carers often go unrecognised, carrying responsibilities most people never notice. Thank you to Contact for recognising young carers like me. Thank you to Ealing Anchor Foundation and Brentford Young Carers for helping my family. And thank you to my mum and my brother. They are my reason, my strength, and my heart.”
Anna Bird, chief executive at Contact, said: “Huge congratulations to Raphael for his wonderful win, which is so well deserved. As a young carer, he is not only looking out for his brother Sanchez, he is also there for his mum, showing maturity and care beyond his years. Our awards are an important reminder that families with disabled children play an incredibly important role in our society, not only caring for their own family, but also often supporting a wider community with their insight, knowledge and compassion.”
The ceremony was hosted by Lord Young of Cookham, with Stephen Timms, minister at the Department of Work and Pensions, in attendance.
