The MYTIME Ball 2024: A Night of Celebration, Support, and Generosity

12th Nov 2024
MYTIME Ball Krista Cartlidge CEO

This November, we gathered once again for the annual MYTIME Ball, an evening that unites our community in support of young carers across Dorset and the Isle of Wight. With over 200 passionate individuals in attendance, the event brimmed with warmth, compassion, and a shared commitment to making a positive impact. The evening not only celebrated the resilience of young carers but also raised significant funds for our Operation Christmas campaign—an initiative that will bring joy and festive cheer to over 1,500 young carers through specially curated Christmas goody bags. 

As our guests arrived, they were welcomed with a red-carpet entrance and refreshments, setting a lively and glamorous tone. MYTIME CEO Krista Cartlidge opened the night with a heartfelt speech, expressing gratitude for the unwavering support from our MYTIME family of supporters, she extended ‘none of this would be possible without everyone in this room, the amazing humans that choose to support young people who care for a loved one’. She was followed by Matthew Fretten, CEO of Frettens Solicitors, who sponsored the night. Matthew spoke on the power of community and the importance of supporting young carers, echoing Frettens' long-standing partnership with MYTIME. Matthew also spoke on the improvement of staff satisfaction since partnering, and ‘what great fun’ that partnerships had been so far, announcing that after a staff vote, Frettens have decided to extend their partnership into a fourth year! 

MYTIME ball frettens solicitors

The evening then moved into a deeply inspiring interview session led by Professor Saul Becker, a world-renowned expert on young carers. Joined by Jemima and Craig, two of the young carers MYTIME proudly supports, Professor Becker brought light to the unique challenges young carers face every day. Jemima and Craig shared their own stories, providing our guests with firsthand insights into the resilience, courage, and hope that define these remarkable young people. It was a moving reminder of why the support raised through events like the MYTIME Ball is so crucial. 

As guests enjoyed a sumptuous three-course meal from our fantastic partners at the Hilton, excitement built around the evening’s highly anticipated auction, raffle and highly entertaining game. Bidders vied for an array of spectacular prizes, from luxury experiences to exclusive memorabilia, each item generously donated by members of our community. Thanks to the spirited participation and generosity of everyone involved, we raised over an incredible £30,000 that will go directly toward Operation Christmas and our Making Memories Programme, ensuring that over 1500 young carers receive a special gift bag filled with treats and essentials to make their holiday season a little brighter. 

Entertainment was another highlight of the evening, with Mark and Vicky taking to the stage to perform a selection of crowd-pleasing favourites, filling the room with joy and energy. Their talent added to the evening’s festivities and had everyone on their feet, dancing and celebrating together in honour of young carers. 

Reflecting on the success of this year’s MYTIME Ball, we are overwhelmed by the generosity and enthusiasm shown by every attendee. The funds raised will enable us to spread holiday cheer to more young carers than ever before, bringing a moment of joy to those who can spend their days caring for others.  

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Thank you to everyone who joined us, donated, and supported the MYTIME Ball this year. Your compassion and dedication fuel our mission to stand by young carers, not only during the holidays but every day of the year. Together, we are making a lasting difference in their lives, one celebration at a time. 

Here’s to another successful year and to many more nights filled with kindness, community, and the spirit of giving.  

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There is still a chance to donate to our Operation Christmas appeal to ensure that every young carer receives a MYTIME bag this Christmas!  

Here’s how you can support young carers this Christmas:  

  • Volunteer to deliver bags to schools across Dorset by contacting us at  

Together, let’s make this Christmas a memorable one for young carers and show them how much we appreciate their dedication.