One of our biggest pieces of charity work is our Young Carers Festival which happens every year in the summer. It is one of the most truly humbling experiences you could ever encounter, and we have the privilege of playing host to such a wonderful event. Why am I telling you about it – well firstly so that you know it happens! This is our 19th year, and each year it gets bigger and better with more and more Young Carers from across England coming together for a chance to really let their hair down for a weekend, and to be free of their caring responsibilities.

We will stop warbling on and let the videos of these festivals speak for themselves.

Official figures put the number of children caring for their parents, siblings and family members at 166,363 nationally, with 2,934 in Hampshire. However, The Children’s Society argues that, as many young carers are hidden from view, the real figure is likely to be significantly higher.

Approximately 1300+ Young Carers aged between 10-18 years old will not only get respite from their caring roles over the festival weekend, but the chance to meet other young carers and to have their voices heard by policy makers. The Children’s Commissioner, Anne Longfield, often attends the event to hear first-hand from young carers about their experiences.

If you would like to volunteer your time, a resource or simply donate to the event, please give us a call on 01489 785228 or email info@ymca-fg.org. Everyone’s support is very welcome.