Young Carers Shine at the 2024 Young Carers Festival in Wales

A group of dedicated young carers from our community recently had the opportunity to attend the annual Young Carers Festival 2024, held in Llanelwedd at the Royal Welsh Showground. The event, which took place over the weekend, brought together young carers from across Wales for a celebration of their hard work and resilience. Although the festival included camping for several groups, our attendees participated on August 21st as day visitors, allowing them to experience the highlights of the event while returning home the same day.

A Day of Fun, Learning, and Connection

Despite attending for just one day, the experience was packed with engaging activities, workshops, and entertainment tailored to meet the needs of young carers. From outdoor challenges to creative arts sessions, the festival provided our young carers with a much-needed break and the chance to be around others who share similar life experiences.

Empowering Young Carers

In addition to the activities, the festival included informative sessions aimed at empowering young carers and giving them a voice. Workshops focused on mental health, self-care, and practical skills were a key part of the event. Although our group’s time at the festival was brief, they still took part in discussions about the challenges they face and what support they need. Topics such as better access to mental health resources and improved respite services were emphasised.

Building Connections and Community

The festival was more than just a break from daily responsibilities — it was an opportunity to connect with others who understand the unique challenges of being a young carer. While our group couldn’t stay overnight, the bonds they formed and the shared sense of community left a lasting impression.
Youth worker Michael, who accompanied the group, remarked, “Even though we could only attend for a day, the young carers had an amazing time. It’s important for them to know they’re not alone and that there’s a whole community of people who understand what they’re going through. Events like this help build their confidence and show them how much they’re valued.”

Looking Forward

The 2024 Young Carers Festival may have only been a single day for our group, but its impact will be long-lasting. The attendees returned home with new friendships, positive memories, and a renewed sense of belonging. Our community is proud of these young carers and appreciates the support that events like this provide.

As the role of young carers continues to be recognised, the festival highlighted the ongoing need for increased resources and better support. While our young carers face many challenges, their determination and strength were evident at this year’s festival, reminding us of the importance of continuing to champion their needs and celebrate their contributions.