Cash help for young carers and crisi centre

The Young Carers Project runs a fortnightly carers club which provides 55 young carers with support and access to activities and holiday outings.

The club and the group activities it runs gives young carers the opportunity to meet and make friends with others in similar situations to themselves.

The grant is to contribute towards the major refurbishment of their building, which they have leased from Test Valley Borough Council for £1 a year.

The work will cost in the region of £36,500. They have already raised £6,250 and are asking a local DIY store to provide some of the materials they need.

The Andover Crisis and Support Centre offers accommodation to women and their children who are in need of a supportive environment. They also operate a drop in service offering advice, information, social contact and counselling.

The centre was established in 1975 and has expanded over the years to meet clients need. They have recently been awarded local and central government grants in partnership with Test Valley Borough Council and Testway Housing to redevelop their current accommodation, which is too small.

The redevelopment will enable the centre to accommodate a further 14 families and expand their work in the community.

The grant is to contribute towards the costs of furnishing the building.

Cllr Thornber said: "Both of these organisations provide extremely valuable services to the local community. It is good to see that in Andover support is available to those who need it. I am delighted to be able to contribute towards accommodation for these community organisations.

"One of the county council's key priorities is to build strong communities and to reduce isolation. These groups offer young carers and women the chance to meet other people who are experiencing similar situations to themselves providing support and understanding from their peers."