Over the last year Clyde Valley Housing Association (CVHA) has enjoyed the privilege of supporting its chosen charity, Action for Children’s Young Carers’ Project in North Lanarkshire.

During that time CVHA’s team has learnt about the project’s work with young people who have the difficult task of caring for a family member whilst attending school and just being a kid.

The Association’s donations has enabled the charity to have outings to places that are fun, and also provide the children with much needed ‘me time’ and respite from the weight of their responsibilities There was a day out to Blair Drummond Safari Park in the summer and in winter, a Christmas Panto with gifts and sweets. And, of course, there were chocolate eggs at Easter.

In return, CVHA staff have benefited greatly, in seeing the drive and determination of the young people, who, despite the complications of their daily lives, have been an inspiration to us all.

Carla Maguire, young persons’ practitioner at the project, said: “The support from CVHA has been so helpful for our young carers, as it gave them opportunities that they may never have experienced, enabling them to spend quality time with their peers. On the outings, our staff commented that it was brilliant to see all of the young people laughing and smiling and enjoying themselves.

“Also, our relationship with CVHA has raised the awareness and profile of young carers, which is crucial for the Project in trying to reach those young carers who have not yet been identified.

“We met a number of the Association’s staff members, all of whom were very positive, friendly and enthusiastic about their relationship with the Young Carers Project. For our part, all our staff, young people and their families are very grateful for the support that the Housing Association has given us.”

Lynn Wassell, chief executive of Clyde Valley Housing Group, added: “Young carers do an amazing job for the people they love and the team at Action for Children provide brilliant support. Young carers deserve recognition and thanks and it has been rewarding for my team to be able to make our contribution to doing this in North Lanarkshire.”