Summer trips provide respite for young carers
Young carers in East Ayrshire recently enjoyed some well-deserved respite from their caring responsibilities thanks to summer trips provided by East Ayrshire Carers Centre.
During this year’s school holidays, the centre facilitated days out for every young carer they support. These included trips to Heads of Ayr Farm Park, Culzean Country Park, the Rural Museum of Life and more.
They also enjoyed activities such as bowling, tubing, laser tag and trips to the cinema.
Ryan Duffy, Young Carers Development Manager at the Centre, told us more:
“This summer, every young carer we support across East Ayrshire got the chance to take a break from their caring role and enjoy some time just being children.
“We even had a group of young carers go sailing for a week with the Ocean Youth Trust. For many of the young people we support, these are opportunities they might not otherwise get.
“The summer holiday is always a busy time for young carers, and with no school routine many spend even more time helping to look after parents, siblings or other family members.
“This is why these trips are so important. They give young people the chance to switch off, have fun with friends and enjoy a break from the responsibilities they carry at home.
“This year 125 young people took part in day trips and a further 60 enjoyed residential breaks. The feedback from young people was incredible, with many telling us the trips were the highlight of their summer.
“Seeing them trying something new, laughing with their friends, and even just getting the chance to relax reminds us why these respite trips are so crucial. They’re much more than activities – they help build confidence and friendships while reducing isolation and allow young carers to make memories that’ll last a lifetime.”
Find out more about the work of East Ayrshire Carers Centre at eastayrshirecarers.org.uk
