A YOUTH project in West Devon has been given a cash boost to help provide respite for young carers in the area.

Young Devon's Young Carers Group recently received a cheque for £2,000 from Devon County Councillor Debo Sellis' locality budget to put towards funding trips for youngsters who are carers for parents or siblings, or whose parents are carers for someone else, and would not otherwise get an opportunity to enjoy some free time.

The donation will be put towards funding activities and day trips for the two Young Carers Groups in Tavistock and Okehampton.

Katherine Mullan, from Young Devon, said: 'This money will go towards funding respite trips and activities for next year, such as woodland trips, bowling, going to the cinema, ice-skating — anything they enjoy doing. We try to arrange nine or ten trips a year to give young carers an opportunity to have some free time and spend time with other young people in similar situations. It also helps to develop their social skills and raise their self-esteem and confidence.'

Cllr Sellis said she was very happy to support ventures like this: 'I am passionate about supporting young carers. They need to have the opportunity to have some "normality" and some time to recharge their batteries.'

Young Devon has offices in Pixon Lane, Tavistock and Room 13 in Okehampton.

The organisation is appealing for volunteers for the Young Carers Groups in both towns to help with day trips and various activities throughout the year.

Anyone who is able to spare a few hours a week can obtain more information by contacting Katherine Mullan on 01822 612555.