IN its first funding round of 2017, BBC Children in Need has announced a boost of £88,918 to Fife Young Carers, the Lochgelly-based project helping young people with caring responsibilities to reach their fullest potential.

The news means that the Charity now has more than £664,000 at work locally.

Over the next three years, funding will allow a support worker and other sessional staff to facilitate one to one and group services for young carers aged between eight and 18 years old.

Overall, these services help to tackle some of the challenges faced by youngsters who care for a family member, including isolation, loss of confidence and independence, and low aspirations.

One to one meetings can involve sitting down for a chat with the support worker or undertaking a simple activity with the young person, which offers up a chance for them to receive undivided attention, and an opportunity to confidentially voice their feelings and receive advice to cope with every day challenges.

Meanwhile, participating in fortnightly group sessions allows young carers to engage in fun activities and enjoy a brief respite from their responsibilities. With arts and crafts, baking or playing games and sports on offer at these sessions, young people will be able to relax and make friends with peers in a similar situation. Thus, helping them realise that they are not alone in their experiences.

Speaking of the new funding, Nina Collins, Manager at the project said: “We are so delighted to receive this funding from BBC Children in Need.

"With this funding we can continue to address the areas of our young carers’ lives where they need the most support. Thank you to everyone who has donated and made this grant possible!”

Speaking of the grants, Mary Duffy, National Head of Scotland for BBC Children in Need said: “We want this year to get off to a strong start for children and young people across Fife, which is why we are so pleased to be funding the work of Fife Young Carers.

"As ever, competition for funds is high, but through their application this organisation has demonstrated the tangible impact that their activities can have on those that need it most. We are so grateful to all of our fundraisers and supporters; you make these grants possible!”

BBC Children in Need's Chief Executive, Simon Antrobus added: “Having just joined the Charity I have already seen the tremendous difference that our funding makes. These grants ensure children and young people from all across the UK that are facing a range of disadvantages including abuse, isolation, bereavement and homelessness are safe, happy and secure and able to reach their potential. To all of our fundraisers who make it all possible, thank you!”