Young carers living in Andover are 'over the moon' at a huge grant that will help pay for new kit and equipment, including boots, socks, gloves, and nets.

The Jamie G Sporting Trust was set up in memory of Andover sporting talent Jamie Gentleman and supports youth sports clubs and activities in the Andover area, providing vital funds to ensure young people in the town have access to sport. 

Members of the local charity, Andover Young Carers (AYC) said the £777 cheque was a fabulous boost. Amanda Kelly, Charity Executive at AYC said “We are absolutely delighted to have been awarded this funding. It has allowed us to buy vital equipment to ensure all our young carers can take part in football training activities. This supports the well-being of young carers, which will help with their physical and mental health and give them that all important opportunity to just have some fun”.

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Tommy Gentleman, Chair of Jamie G Sporting Trust said "Participation is key to unlocking all of the physical, mental, social and emotional benefits that come with sport. For us, we want to help as many young people in and around Andover to take part and flourish in their own way. The work that the team do at Andover Young Carers is inspirational and we are delighted to empower more possibilities for sport via this grant."

The Trust has provided over £150,000 to sports clubs for the young in the Andover area since 2009 which has assisted local clubs, organisations and individuals by providing equipment, kit and support. 

AYC helps isolated, vulnerable and disadvantaged young people aged 8-18 with caring responsibilities for a family member with a disability, illness, poor mental health and/or alcohol or drug abuse problems. The charity offers young carers a regular break from the challenges of their circumstances, where they can have fun, relax and access activities that can help with their well-being and self-esteem. 

Joe Osborne, Support Worker at AYC and football coach added: “This funding has enabled us to hugely improve what we offer our young people. We have noticed that with the addition of this new equipment, more young carers are likely to get involved in physical activity. I have recently completed an FA coaching qualification, and the young people adore it when we set up the agility ladders, cones and mini nets for a training session. We are grateful for the funding and we are looking forward to putting it to good use”