Young Carers Festival 2024

On Friday 6th June, LiNCHigher hosted a Young Carers Festival which brought together Young Carers from four secondary schools in Lincolnshire, to celebrate their courage and resilience. This special event, organised to recognise and celebrate the hard work and dedication of young carers, provided a day filled with fun, relaxation, and a well-deserved break from their everyday responsibilities.

The day began with a warm welcome and an exciting campus tour. As the students arrived, they were greeted with smiles and guided through the campus grounds. This tour was not just an opportunity to explore the campus but also a chance for the young carers to ask student ambassadors questions.

One of the day's highlights was the drama workshop. Led by Connor Short, this session encouraged the young carers to express themselves through the art of performance. The workshop was filled with laughter, creativity, and confidence building.

The therapy ponies were a great hit with the students, allowing the young carers to take a moment to relax and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of interacting with animals. Students also enjoyed writing and drawing on the ponies with special animal friendly pens designed to wash off.

The festival also had a penalty shootout which proved popular, with students eagerly lined up to test their football skills, their competitive spirit was in full swing. Nearby, the bouncy castle allowed the students to simply have fun.

There was a range of arts and crafts activities. The face painting station was great fun, even the staff and teachers got involved! The photobooth captured great moments from the day and was a great opportunity for a full class trip photo, providing keepsakes that the students could cherish. Badge making was another creative activity, allowing students to design and create their own unique badges, a small but meaningful souvenir to take home.

Carers First were present, offering support and resources to the young carers. Representatives from Carers First engaged with the students, providing valuable information about the services available to them and ensuring that they felt supported and understood.

The Young Carers Festival was more than just a day of fun and activities; it was a celebration of the incredible strength and resilience of young carers. It provided them with a much-needed break, a chance to connect with peers who share similar experiences. The event highlighted the importance of supporting these young individuals, acknowledging their efforts, and ensuring they have the resources and support they need.

We can’t wait to host another Young Carers Festival in 2025!