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Please meet Lauren and Caitlin who were awarded Postal Family Fund Rising Stars bursaries. Lauren has been selected for the English Schools Championships for middle distance running and Caitlin trains and competes as a long jumper with the goal of reaching county and national level standards. We spoke to their postal worker dad Malcolm about how the bursary has impacted the family.
Why did you apply for the Postal Family Fund bursary?
I applied for the Postal Family Fund to support my two daughters, Lauren and Caitlin Creaby, in their athletics journeys. Both girls are incredibly dedicated to their sport and train multiple times a week with Gateshead Harriers. As they’ve progressed and started competing at higher levels, the financial demands have naturally increased covering everything from coaching and track fees to travel, accommodation, competition entries, and specialist equipment like spikes and training gear.
This is now our third year applying for the fund, and each time it’s been a huge help. We applied again this year because the girls are continuing to grow and develop in their events. In addition to sprinting Caitlin has recently transitioned to long jump and is training four times a week, while Lauren is competing nationally in middle-distance running and has just been selected for the English Schools Championships again. The fund helps us manage the rising costs of supporting two high-level athletes and ensures they don’t have to miss out on opportunities due to financial constraints.
More than anything, we applied because we want to give our daughters every chance to succeed in something they love and work so hard at. The Postal Family Fund helps make that possible.
What impact has the bursary had?
The bursary has been a really valuable support for our family over the past 2 years. With both Lauren and Caitlin training several times a week and competing regularly across the country, the costs involved can build up quickly. From travel and accommodation to coaching fees, track access, and specialist kit, there’s always something that needs covering. The grant has definitely helped lighten the load.
It’s made a noticeable difference in helping us stay on top of the essentials. For example, it’s helped with things like entry fees for competitions, replacing worn-out spikes, and covering some of the travel costs for events that are often far from home. These are the kinds of expenses that can quietly pile up over a season, especially with two athletes in the family, so having that extra bit of support has been really appreciated.
More than anything, the bursary has allowed us to keep the girls focused on their training and development without constantly having to make tough choices about which events they can afford to attend or whether we can stretch to another pair of shoes. It’s helped us maintain consistency in their routines and given them the chance to keep progressing in a sport they both love.
We’re genuinely grateful for the support that has made a practical difference and helped us feel like we’re not doing it all alone.
What would you like to say to other postal workers thinking about applying for a Rising Star bursary?
Absolutely without hesitation. I would 100% recommend the Postal Family Fund to any colleague who has children involved in sport, the arts, or any activity that requires dedication, time, and financial commitment.
The support we’ve received has been incredible. It’s not just about the money, it’s about what that money enables. For us, it’s meant that Lauren and Caitlin can continue to train with top coaches, compete at the highest levels, and grow in confidence and ability. It’s also shown them that their hard work is recognised and supported, which is so motivating for them as young athletes.
The application process is straightforward, and the team behind the fund is supportive and understanding. If you’re thinking about applying, I’d say go for it. Whether your child is just starting out or already competing at a high level, the fund can make a huge difference. It’s helped our family more than I can say, and I’m so grateful for the opportunities it’s opened up for both of my daughters.
