The countdown has begun for the UK’s largest Young Carers Festival, which returns to YMCA Fairthorne Manor in Botley, Southampton from 26th–28th June 2026.
Hosted by YMCA Fairthorne Group in partnership with The Children’s Society, the annual event will welcome 1,000 Young Carers from across the country for a weekend dedicated to friendship, respite, recognition and fun.
Who are Young Carers?
Young Carers are children and young people who help care for a family member or loved one affected by illness, disability, mental health challenges or addiction. Across the UK, nearly 800,000 young people carry caring responsibilities — often balancing school, friendships and childhood alongside significant pressures at home.
Many do so quietly, without recognition and without a break. The Young Carers Festival exists to change that.
A Weekend Like No Other
This year’s festival will once again transform Fairthorne Manor into a vibrant celebration filled with outdoor adventure activities, live entertainment, wellbeing spaces, workshops, sports, music, creative experiences and opportunities for Young Carers to connect with others from across the UK.
For many of the young people who attend, it provides something rare — a chance to step away from daily pressures, spend time with people who truly understand their experiences and simply enjoy being young.
Youth Services Director Josh Towers said:
“YCF is an incredibly special event and one that means a huge amount to everyone involved. It is about recognising the extraordinary role Young Carers play every single day and creating a space where they can relax, have fun, make memories, and feel truly valued. Whilst the festival lasts only one weekend, the impact it has on many young people can last much longer. We are proud to work alongside The Children’s Society and Young Carers services from across the country to make this event possible.”
Made Possible by People
The festival is made possible through the dedication of a wide partnership of organisations, charities, volunteers, youth workers and supporters who come together each year to create an unforgettable experience for young people who deserve it most.
As the countdown to June continues, we are encouraging the public to learn more about the realities Young Carers face and the importance of ensuring they are recognised and supported within their communities.
Get Involved
If you feel like volunteering might be for you, or you have something to contribute to your community, we’d love to hear from you. Find out more about the Young Carers Festival and how you can support it at ymca-fg.org/young-carers-festival.
