Devon Young Carers launch new support group with raft-building day on Exeter Canal

A group of young carers from across Devon swapped their everyday responsibilities for paddles and planks last week, launching a raft down Exeter Canal as part of a new initiative to give them a stronger voice in shaping local support.

The adventure day, organised by Devon Young Carers at Westbank, marked the launch of the Young Carers Movement Group.

READ NEXT: Huge name announced for Powderham Castle's summer line-up

The new group will provide a platform for young people who look after family members to share their experiences, highlight challenges, and suggest improvements to the support available.

Six young carers came together at Haven Banks in Exeter to build and sail a raft they had designed themselves.

Working in teams, they successfully constructed a vessel big enough to carry the group and to their delight, it stayed afloat all the way down the canal and back.

The day wasn’t just about adventure. Over lunch, the group met with representatives from Devon County Council’s Post 16 Learning Participation Team, who introduced a new service offering careers advice tailored to young carers.

The teenagers gave feedback on what would help them most, from how they’d like to meet with advisors to what support would make a difference in planning their futures.

Afterwards, the group rounded off the day at Exeter’s Escape Room, where they cracked codes and puzzles to break free with time to spare.

Paddy Agnew, Service Manager for Devon Young Carers, said: “It was a fantastic day, filled with teamwork, laughter, and thoughtful conversations.

The Young Carers Movement Group is about young carers feeling heard and empowered. Together, we make change happen.”

For many, the day was as memorable as it was meaningful. Seventeen-year-old Kaytie from Dawlish said the activities taught her “there is no I or me in team, only us."

While Josh, 17, from Cullompton admitted the raft-building was “a bit scary because it felt like I was going to join the Titanic,” but still “a lot of fun.”

The Young Carers Movement Group will continue to meet online throughout the year, with an annual in-person activity designed to boost confidence, teamwork and life skills.