Andover Young Carers welcomed a special visitor this week as the Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire visited the charity’s centre during a busy half-term drop-in session.
Nigel Atkinson Esq, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, spent time at the centre on Tuesday 17 February, meeting young carers, staff, volunteers and patrons, and learning more about the support the charity provides.
The visit coincided with a lively holiday session, which saw 26 young carers take part in activities including football, table tennis, air hockey and pancake races, alongside Chinese New Year crafts.
Mr Atkinson was welcomed by Amanda Kelly, Charity Executive at Andover Young Carers, as well as patrons Mrs Jane Benson and Mr Iain Henderson. A 25th anniversary cake was also shared during the visit to mark the charity’s milestone year.
During his visit, the Lord-Lieutenant spoke with young carers about their experiences and the support they receive from the organisation. Some of the young people had previously met him at the Royal Southampton Yacht Club’s annual awards ceremony.
Speaking after the visit, Mr Atkinson said it had been a pleasure to meet the young carers, volunteers and staff and to hear first-hand about the help and support provided by the charity.
Andover Young Carers supports children and young people aged 8 to 18 who have caring responsibilities for a family member with a disability, illness, poor mental health or substance dependency.
The charity provides after-school clubs, holiday sessions, school drop-ins and one-to-one support, offering young carers a safe space to relax, have fun and connect with others who understand their experiences.
Founded in 2000, Andover Young Carers is a registered charity that relies on grants, donations and fundraising to continue its work in the community.