Young Carers Action Day is an annual Carers Trust initiative is a vital opportunity to recognise the contribution of young carers and to highlight the importance of ensuring they have equal access to education, wellbeing support and future opportunities.
This year’s theme, Fair Futures, focuses on equity of opportunity – recognising the strengths young carers develop while addressing the barriers they may face, and
supporting them to thrive.
Across Dorset, partners are working together to raise awareness and celebrate young carers. Below, MYTIME Young Carers share how they are marking the day and supporting young carers across Dorset and BCP.
MYTIME Young Carers
Supporting Young Carers Across Dorset
MYTIME Young Carers provides support, activities and opportunities for young carers aged 5 to 25 across Dorset and BCP. We help young carers enjoy childhood, build confidence, connect with peers and develop skills for life.
Learn more about MYTIME: https://www.mytimeyoungcarers.org/
Below are the activities MYTIME is leading to mark the day:
Zoom Youth Group Session
Our Zoom Youth Group runs weekly and gives young carers a chance to meet and connect online through games, activities, creativity and conversation.
For Young Carers Action Day, we have shared an invite with all young carers registered with MYTIME. The session will:
• Introduce what Young Carers Action Day is and why it matters
• Explore the Fair Futures theme using the primary school Level Up activity
• Move into a creative card-making and craft activity together
This is a fun, inclusive online space to relax, be creative and connect with peers who understand their experiences
Employability Programme Celebration
To celebrate young carers who have completed the Employability course from April 2025 to March 2026, MYTIME will host a special evening event.
The celebration will:
• Award certificates to graduates
• Showcase achievements in education and workplaces
• Bring together young carers, parents, supporters, funders and alumni
Our Youth Action & Advisory Board (YAAB) will also have their own stand at the event. The YAAB is a group of young carers who ensure lived experience
shapes our programmes and policy work. At the stand, they will showcase their advocacy and impact to other young carers and attendees, demonstrating how youth voice drives real change.
Learn more about our Employability Programme: https://www.mytimeyoungcarers.org/our-work/
Making Memories Outdoor Activity Days
Across three activity days, 200 young carers from Dorset will enjoy outdoor experiences designed to give them a break from school and their caring
responsibilities.
Activities will include:
• High ropes
• Climbing
• Crate stacking
• Bushcraft
• Tunnelling
• Team challenges
These days provide opportunities to build confidence, resilience, teamwork and friendships in a safe and supportive environment.
Learn more about Making Memories: https://www.mytimeyoungcarers.org/making-memories
Level Up in Schools
In schools across Dorset, our Level Up team will deliver activities linked to this year’s Fair Futures theme.
Primary pupils will:
• Identify strengths developed through caring
• Create a shield representing their qualities and skills
• Secondary pupils will:
• Analyse case studies
• Recognise transferable skills
• Explore pathways to future education and careers
• Identify support needed to achieve fair futures
Learn more about Level Up: https://www.mytimeyoungcarers.org/schools-programme
Need support or want to join in with any of the above?
If you or a young person you know is a young carer and would like support or to take part in MYTIME activities:
Make a referral or find out more: https://www.mytimeyoungcarers.org/get-support/
Contact us:
Email: enquiries@mytimeyoungcarers.org
Phone: 01202 710701
Together we can help ensure every young carer in Dorset has the support and opportunities they deserve.
Registering with Your Local Carer Service
If you are a young carer – or you support a young person who has caring responsibilities – registering with your local carer service can open the door to additional support, advice and opportunities.
If the person you care for lives in the Dorset Council area, you can register with:
Dorset Carer Service:
https://www.helpandcare.org.uk/dorset-carer-service/
0303 303 0153
carers@helpandcare.org.ukThe Dorset Carer Service is an independent service, funded by Dorset Council and delivered by Help & Care in association with MYTIME Young Carers and the
HOPE Programme.
If you live in the BCP Council area, you can contact:
BCP Early Help Access Point, Children’s Services
Welcome to your online family hub
01202 126 668
EHAccessPoint@bcpcouncil.gov.uk
