Young carers have the experience of looking after a family member in common—but they’re all unique. That’s why we work hard at GYC to create a summer programme packed with variety, so every young carer, whatever their age or interest, can feel part of something and connect with others who understand.  

The school holidays always fly by at GYC, and this summer has seemed like a bumper one for activities.  Our team has been busy across Gloucestershire making sure young carers had the chance to enjoy the fun, freedom and adventures that every child and young person deserves.  

Here’s just a snapshot of what we got up to this summer:  

• Year 8s who completed our Caring Counts programme took on the Ultimate Warrior challenge.  

• Gloucester Juniors let off steam in the play barn at Cattle Country and had a fun-filled day making homemade pizzas, smoothies and pottery painting.

• A group of 70 young and young adult carers spent the day meeting animals at Cotswold Wildlife Park.  

• Forest juniors took on the climbing walls at Viney Hill.  

• Young carers in the Forest of Dean had the chance to meet their MP and share their voices.  

• Cheltenham juniors got hands-on with baby animals at Scrubditch Farm and had an energetic time at Funky Warehouse.

• Our Cheltenham and Cotswold senior group enjoyed a behind-the-scenes experience at the airport.  

• Young adult carers explored creativity with an art and music workshop at the Everyman Theatre.  

• A first for us—21 young carers had an amazing trip to Oxford’s Science Centre.  

• Stroud juniors had a muddy, tractor-filled adventure back at Cattle Country.  

• A journey through the surreal and magical Wake the Tiger experience in Bristol for 25 young carers.

• And to wrap it up, our forum groups climbed Robinswood Hill, then kicked back with a barbecue and some proper downtime.  

There’s been a lot of laughter, adventure, and new experiences—and real moments of connection.  These are the things that build confidence, resilience, and create lifelong memories for the children and young people we work with.    

We couldn’t do any of it without our partners, funders, volunteers and supporters. Thank you for helping make this summer one to remember.

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