Young Carers Go Wild

In collaboration with Gloucestershire Young Carers, Liz MacKenzie, who heads-up our Schools Programme, hosted a series of outdoor fun sessions at Redwood Outdoor Learning Centre in Slimbridge for over 40 young carers during August and October 2020.

This group of of 9-15 year-olds have been particularly affected during COVID, facing increased isolation and anxiety on top of a unique set of challenging personal circumstances at home with vulnerable family members.

Going wild at Redwood on our Slimbridge estate was a welcome respite for all!

Even the weather couldn’t dampen their enthusiasm as they made the most of a rare chance to socialise and have fun. For many, this was the first time for months they had been able to get outdoors, take a break from daily challenges and relax in the company of fellow young carers.

“The positive impact from these sessions on young carers’ wellbeing and mental health is invaluable.” Gloucestershire Young Carers

Activities such as den building, playing games and toasting marshmallows on a campfire were all risk assessed and made COVID secure.

One young carer who had at first been reluctant to join in, later asked his mum, “When can I go again?”