YOUNG carers across East Lancashire are set to be given more opportunities to take a break from their day-to-day roles.

More than £2,800 has been approved by County Councillor Mike Calvert, the cabinet member for young people, towards two innovative schemes in the area.

Carers Link Hyndburn and Ribble Valley has a Young Carers’ Project, which looks after the requirements of young people who tend to the needs of a parent, grand-parent or sibling.

Seventy-three young people, the majority aged 16 and under, will benefit from a trip to the Chill Factore indoor ski centre, 10-pin bowling and cinema outings and a meal out. Around £375 will also be spent on a Christmas meal and a further £200 on craft materials to keep the project ticking over.

A Carers Link spokes-man said as part of their bid: “Many young carers are unable to take part in activities and trips because of their role.

“They have limited free time, additional respons-ibilities and because parents are unable to work due to illness or disability, the family income often relies on state benefits.”

Lancashire Youth Council, which makes recommendations on Coun Calvert’s grant applications, felt the scheme ‘meets a real social and developmental need’.

Elsewhere as part of the same grants round, Young Carers Contact in Burnley has also received £945, for similar work.

Twenty young carers will be taken for a weekend outing to the Coldwell Activity Centre, near Colne.

They will make short films about the life of young carers as well as enjoying the outdoor adventure area.