2025 will be a year we’ll never forget, as it marks the first time Cardiff YMCA reached
an incredible milestone of taking 20 of our Young Carers on a life-changing trip to
Disneyland Paris.
This was a truly unforgettable experience, offering much needed respite, joy
and connection for some of our most dedicated young carers. Over the
duration of this trip, the young carers were able to step away from their daily
responsibilities and immerse themselves in a world of magic, adventure and
fun.
I remember only a year ago, when I delivered a presentation to the YMCA board of
Trustees, that I got asked by a board member, ‘Faye, what would you like to be able
to offer the young carers if money wasn’t an issues’ and I responded to say ‘My
dream would be able to take our Young Carers to Disneyland Paris’, fast forward a
only a year later and we made it happen!
For many of our young carers this was a rare and once in a lifetime opportunity to
simply be young people, to laugh freely, build friendships and enjoy new experiences
without the added pressure from their caring roles. For some, it was their first time
travelling abroad, and for others, their first time leaving Cardiff—making this
an incredibly special trip.
Young carers were carefully selected for this trip based on the intensity of their
caring responsibilities, as well as their individual family circumstances, particularly
those who, due to financial hardship or challenging home dynamics, would otherwise
not have the opportunity to experience something like this.
This trip helped to not only boost their confidence and self-esteem but also enabled
them to feel seen, valued and appreciated. It also created a strong sense of
community within the group, with many of our young carers feedbacking back to us
how valuable it was for them to connect with their peers who understand their
challenges.
The positive impact from this trip has extended far beyond the visit itself. Upon
returning home, many young carers have said they feel more refreshed, motivated
and emotionally resilient. This break allowed them to reset and then return to their
caring roles with renewed energy and a stronger sense of support.
This experience has not only created long last memories but has also reminded
these incredible young people that they are not alone, and that their hard work,
dedication and compassion truly does matter.
As the Senior Young Carers Project Worker, I am very blessed to have an amazing
team of staff behind me, as this trip to Disneyland Paris will remain one of the
highlights of my career. Watching a group of our young carers enjoy such a magical
experience was incredibly moving, especially at the evening firework and drone
show in front of the castle, where I became quite emotional. In that moment, it really
hit me why I had organised this trip which was to give something special back to
these remarkable young people who give so much of themselves every day. My
hope for the future is to be able to offer this type of unforgettable opportunity to all
our young carers, as every single one of them truly deserves it.
Faye Osgood
Senior Youth Project Worker Young Carers (Vale of Glamorgan) / Uwch Weithiwr Prosiect
Ieuenctid Gofalwyr ifanc (Bro Morgannwg)
YMCA Cardiff / YMCA Caerdydd