Andover Young Carers is a charity that offers respite and support for people aged 8 to 18 who have had very little or no childhood owing to their significant caring responsibilities for a parent, parents or sibling with a long-term illness, terminal illness or disability. The group also assists young people who have been affected by their parent’s drug or alcohol addictions, mental health problems or domestic violence.

The children are given a chance to join in with group activities. From a drop-in homework club, to help with the shopping and cleaning, the group can help make a great difference to the children’s lives. The group ensures that they stick to the ‘Every Child Matters’ framework, and help to ensure that the young carers are healthy and safe.

Lorena Burlison, from the Andover Young Carers group explains:
"Winning the South East entry of the Kerrygold Awards means so much to us as it will help so many children in our region. The support and votes that we received highlights the public’s empathy with what these children endure and emphasises the importance of why community groups such as the Andover Young Carers needs to exist. "

The children in the group have made a ‘Wish List’ of their favourite activities and treats, with the help of the Kerrygold Community Awards cash prize, Andover Young Carers hope to make some of the children’s wishes come true.