A Summer of Memories

The days are getting shorter, and the air is beginning to carry a hint of autumn. As the school term kicks off and life settles back into its usual rhythm, we can't help but take a moment to reminisce about the incredible summer we've had with young carers across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole (BCP) and Dorset. The past six weeks have been nothing short of magical, full of cherished memories and smiles that warmed our hearts. 

At MYTIME Young Carers, we believe every child deserves a carefree summer, no matter their circumstances. This year, we embarked on a mission to make that belief a reality. And let us tell you, it was a summer to remember! 

We kicked off the season with a bang, hosting a whopping 16 different activity days throughout July and August. The best part? We had the privilege of welcoming 197 individual young carers during these six weeks. It was a summer of unity, adventure, and growth, and we couldn't be prouder of the incredible experiences we shared. 

One of the standout moments was when we took our young carers on an exclusive tour of the Vitality Stadium, the beloved home of AFC Bournemouth. Their eyes sparkled with excitement as they explored the hallowed ground, walking in the footsteps of their favourite football stars. 

But we didn't stop there. We embraced the beautiful coastal setting of BCP and Dorset, diving into exhilarating watersports adventures. Picture this: the sun on your face, the taste of salt in the air, and the thrill of catching a wave while surfing. We also tried our hand at sailing, windsurfing and paddleboarding, giving our young carers the chance to conquer the sea uniquely. 

Of course, no summer is complete without a little creativity! We had crafting days that brought out the inner artists in our young carers. Toilet rolls transformed into adorable aliens, and the giggles echoed through the room as these young minds let their imaginations run wild. 

Our summer festival at the R&R centre was a highlight that brought everyone together. There were bouncy castles, games galore, and laughter that resonated for miles. It was a day filled with joy, where our young carers had the freedom to be kids and enjoy the moment. 

Perhaps one of the most memorable moments was our time at Adventure Pirates. No, we weren't searching for hidden treasures but learning invaluable life skills. Our young carers discovered the art of making fires safely and tried their hand at archery, building resilience and confidence along the way. 

But it wasn't all about thrills and spills. We also took the time to learn essential first aid skills, equipping our young carers with the knowledge to be confident and helpful in emergencies. This was a summer of empowerment, where they gained life skills that will serve them well beyond the sunny days. 

None of this would have been possible without the incredible support of The National Lottery. In June, we were honoured to win the people's project, securing funding that made these unforgettable activity days a reality. The National Lottery's dedication to bringing people together and helping children and young people has touched our hearts deeply. They've made dreams come true for our young carers and allowed them to experience a summer filled with love, laughter, and adventure. 

As we bid farewell to summer and step into a new season, we carry the warmth of these memories with us. We are profoundly grateful to The National Lottery and all our supporters for enabling us to create these lasting memories for young carers in BCP and Dorset.