Andover Young Carers (AYC) is marking a major milestone – 25 years of supporting young carers in Andover and the surrounding area.
Founded in 2000 as the Andover Young Carers Project, the charity has grown into a lifeline for children and young people aged 8–18 who care for a family member living with disability, illness, poor mental health or addiction. Many of the young people supported by AYC face poverty, trauma and isolation – and the charity’s work provides them with something vital: the chance to simply be children.
AYC currently supports more than 200 young carers every year, offering respite, fun activities, and opportunities to build confidence and self-esteem. These regular breaks give young carers a chance to step away from the pressures of their caring responsibilities and connect with others who understand their challenges.
Over the coming months, AYC will be sharing stories and memories from its 25-year journey, featuring the voices of trustees, volunteers and staff who have helped make the charity what it is today. The organisation is also looking to strengthen its future by recruiting new members for its Management Committee.
Mick Mundy, one of the trustees, said:
“We would like to thank all of our volunteers and those who have supported the charity with their time and financial contributions. We have been fortunate to secure some major grants but rely more and more on the generosity of local people. It is these contributions, no matter how small, together with individual fundraising which enables us to keep afloat.”
Like many charities, AYC relies on a mix of grants, donations and local fundraising to continue its vital work. Rising costs and tougher fundraising conditions mean local support is more important than ever. Events, company partnerships and individual contributions all help ensure that young carers in Andover have the consistent support they need.
As AYC looks ahead to the next 25 years, its mission remains the same: to be a trusted source of support for young people with caring responsibilities – helping them feel less isolated and more supported.
For more information about Andover Young Carers and how to get involved, visit their website: https://andoveryoungcarers.co.uk