2 August 2021

New Forest Young Carers splash into summer at Royal Southampton Yacht Club

The New Forest Young Carers Summer Activity programme started with a splash thanks to the generosity of The Royal Southampton Yacht Club Trust.

The Trust set up a family fun day for some of the Young Carers and their families so they could relax by the river and try some new activities.

Sue Ward from New Forest Young Carers Service said “We’ve been really lucky in the past to be supported by the Trust. Several Young Carers have had the chance to go on a Tall Ship or learn to sail because of them, so when they asked if we would be interested in a family day, we didn’t hesitate to say yes. For some of our Young Carers it’s the first chance they’ve had to do something face to face for over a year because of the pandemic so we wanted it to be special.”

One of the Young Carers who took part said “It’s been brilliant. I’ve tried kayaking, paddleboarding and crabbing. We caught loads – and then we made a raft and sailed on that and everyone ended up in the river!”

A parent added, “just watching them all enjoy themselves has been so lovely. I don’t think any of them have stopped smiling all day!”

The Young Carers Service currently works with over 230 Young Carers and their families across the New Forest providing support, advice and activities. For more information please contact YC coordinator Marie on 0300 500 8085 or visit the Community First website. You can also find us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.