Devon Young Carers shine at the 2025 Young Carers Festival
Seventeen young carers from across Devon have enjoyed a well-deserved break from their caring responsibilities at the largest festival in the world dedicated to young people with unpaid caring roles.
It’s the 25th year that Devon Young Carers has attended the Young Carers Festival at YMCA Fairthorne Manor at Botley in Hampshire. Four dedicated staff members, one volunteer, and one inspiring Adult Young Carer accompanied them on a two-night adventure packed with connection, laughter, and discovery - a well-deserved break from their day-to-day caring roles at home.
They camped in tents and fully embraced the festival spirit, while making new friends and unforgettable memories. For some, the weekend away from home was also an important step in starting to overcome personal anxieties.
The festival continues to be a vital opportunity for young carers to relax, connect, and feel seen and heard. Activities included singing & live music, fairground rides, fireworks & laser shows, a neon disco, paddle boarding & raft racing, arts and crafts and outdoor film screenings. The Voice Tent provided a powerful space to share their voices and inspire change.
Paddy Agnew, Devon Young Carers Service Manager said, “Thank you to everyone who made this incredible experience possible for these young people. Attending the festival makes such a difference to them. For some, it’s their first experience of being away from home and hanging out with other young people with similar responsibilities. Here's to another 25 years of celebrating and empowering young carers!”
15-year-old Molly from Colyton, one of the young carers who attended, said, “I can’t believe how many tents there are here. I must take a picture to show my mum. I can't believe there are so many other young carers. It's amazing.”
Alison, 13, from Ashburton, said, “The fireworks were amazing. I cried. They were magical.”
Xanthe, 15, from Exeter, liked how the young carers were treated like adults and another Devon Young Carer said, “I feel I can be myself here and forget my worries.”
