A charity supporting young carers has been given £17,000 to help tackle social isolation and loneliness.

New Forest Young Carers, which is run by Community First, has been awarded the grant by the Charles Burnett Memorial Fund.

The cash boost will be given over a two-year period to help run various group activities and workshops including mindfulness and yoga.

The service helps support young carers with activities, trips, one-to-one work, and school support.

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The new funding will help provide more of this support for the young carers, who often have to manage stressful home situations.

Some of the money will also be put towards the service’s main activity programme, which includes youth clubs and activities during the school holidays.

Tim Houghton, the chief executive of Community First, said: "Young carers’ important role often prevents them from enjoying their childhood in the same way as other children.

"They want relief from the constant worry they feel about their parent or sibling – which is where our support can help.

"Thanks to the Charles Burnett Memorial Fund we will be able to provide more respite for more young people, so they can relax, have fun and feel less alone."

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The Charles Burnett Memorial Fund (CBMF) was set up by the family of the late Charles Burnett, from Lymington, known locally as a generous philanthropist and land-speed record holder for a steam-powered car.

The fund supports charitable projects across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

The grant programme is administered by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation (HIWCF).

Jacqui Scott, the CEO of HIWCF, said: "The Charles Burnett Memorial Fund is a wonderful way to recognise Charles and his passion for communities in the New Forest.

"Creating connections within the communities we live is important for us all, but for many people in the New Forest, a sense of physical or social isolation can prevent them feeling the positive benefits of being part of their community.

"This year, 10 community groups received two-year CBMF funding to help build happier, healthier lives for people in the New Forest, helping many more people and communities to flourish."

Community First is part of the Hampshire Young Carers Alliance, a network of 10 young carer projects and services across Hampshire.