Young Carers Summer Programme 2025
Adventure, Friendship, and Fun: West Lothian Young Carers Summer Programme 2025
This summer, West Lothian Young Carers are in for a well-deserved treat as Carers of West Lothian launches its exciting Young Carers Summer Programme, running from 14th July to 8th August 2025.
The summer programme is open to all young carers registered to us and are aged 8 to 18, the programme is all about giving the young carers a break from their responsibilities, a chance to have fun, and the opportunity to simply be children and young people enjoying summer together.
With a packed schedule of unique and adventurous activities, this year’s programme promises something for everyone—from alpaca trekking and den building to axe throwing and surfing lessons at Lost Shores. A major highlight for many will be the Young Carer Festival, a celebratory event full of music, activities, and meeting with other young carers from across Scotland.
“This programme gives them the chance to take a break, have fun with friends, and just enjoy being young people.”
“We know how hard young carers work—often behind the scenes and without much recognition,” said Wilma Murray, Senior Development Worker at Carers of West Lothian. “This programme gives them the chance to take a break, have fun with friends, and just enjoy being young people. Thanks to all our funders and the ‘Get into Summer’ funding we received to help make this programme happen.”
The summer programme is not just about fun (though there’s plenty of that!)—it’s also about building confidence, creating friendships, and trying new experiences in a safe and supportive environment. For many young carers, it’s one of the only times in the year when they can fully step away from their responsibilities and just be themselves.
“I’d never met other young carers before coming here,” said one participant. “Now I’ve got friends who really get what it’s like to be me and I feel less alone.”
The programme is carefully designed to be inclusive, empowering, and above all—fun. Whether it's the excitement of axe throwing, the calm of walking with alpacas, or simply laughing with friends, the memories made over these few weeks will last long after summer holiday ends.
“It’s amazing to see the change in some of the young carers,” said another staff member. “They come out of their shells, try new things, and leave with smiles on their faces—and that’s exactly what we hope for.”
The West Lothian Young Carers Summer Programme is just one of the many ways Carers of West Lothian is working to support and celebrate the incredible young people in our community who take on caring roles at such a young age.
“I’d never met other young carers before—now I’ve got friends who get it.”
Let’s give our young carers the summer they deserve! 🌟
For more info, contact wilma@carers-westlothian.com