Increase in funding for charity supporting young carers in Skye

A charity aiding young carers in the western Highlands has been awarded a 70,000 grant to advance plans for a permanent facility for its services.

Skye and Lochalsh Young Carers currently supports around 70 children and teenagers at a rented cottage in Portree, providing them with respite from their caregiving duties. However, the existing space does not fully accommodate the charity's needs.

The Scottish governments island project funding will be used to develop plans for a new building designed to feel like a spacious family home.

The service caters to children aged five to 18, who attend weekly sessions after school. There, they enjoy meals, social time with peers, and learn practical life skills such as cooking.

Gill Adams, chair of the charitys board of trustees, highlighted the heavy responsibilities these young carers face. "They often look after a parent, grandparent, or sibling due to illness, disability, or sometimes issues with substance abuse," she explained. "These children have to mature quickly, which isnt ideal for their personal development or recreation."

Ms. Adams added that the current cottage gives young carers a sense of having a life outside their caregiving roles, but it is becoming too small. "The children have expressed a desire for a welcoming, home-like space rather than a conventional centre," she said. "Currently, our small kitchen limits our ability to teach cooking or nutritional skills properly. The new building will feature a large dining kitchen as the heart of the home."

The Highland Council has previously supported the charity through community regeneration funding. Councillor John Finlayson, chair of Highland Council's education committee, welcomed the new grant. He emphasized that it will provide vital assistance to young carers who often shoulder significant responsibilities quietly and without recognition.

Author: Riley Thompson