About Halton Carers Centre

Halton Carers Centre is a registered charity supporting over 7,000 unpaid carers across Widnes and Runcorn, including children as young as five. Their mission is to help carers live fulfilling lives by enhancing wellbeing, building skills, and providing vital support. Services include counselling, advocacy, training, holistic therapies, and a wide range of social and wellbeing activities.

The Project: Fun, Food and Friendship

With support from Halton Housing’s 20 for 20 campaign, Halton Carers Centre launched Fun, Food and Friendship—a project designed to give young carers a break from their responsibilities and a chance to simply be children.

The funding supports the Centre’s R Time and Me Time groups, as well as school holiday activities. These sessions offer young carers aged 5–17 the opportunity to relax, have fun, and connect with others in similar situations. The project also includes family activities that promote bonding and provide a sense of normality—removing financial barriers that might otherwise prevent participation.

Community Impact

The project will benefit around 200 young carers across Runcorn and Widnes, including an estimated 50–100 children living in Halton Housing homes. By offering respite, social connection, and positive experiences, the initiative supports both the emotional wellbeing of young carers and the cohesion of their families.

Working Together with Halton Housing

Halton Carers Centre is keen to build a lasting partnership with Halton Housing. Housing support workers are often well-placed to identify families where caring responsibilities exist. Through this collaboration, carers can be referred into the Centre’s support network and offered tailored help. Reserved spaces on trips and activities will also be made available for young carers identified by Halton Housing staff.