Roke Donates £1000 to Romsey Young Carers' Project

Roke Manor Research Limited, a Siemens Company, recently donated £1000 to their 2008 'Charity of the Year', Romsey Young Carers' Project (RYCP).

RYCP was selected as Roke's 'Charity of the Year' from a short list of three local charities, all of whom were seen to have a positive impact on the local community, and to focus their efforts on children and young or disadvantaged people. It was thought that RYCP would benefit most from Roke’s support.

Roke’s employees have raised this initial donation through a variety of fundraising activities, which have included a charity sweepstake, tombola and book exchange programme.

The charity itself is a project centred on Romsey and Southern Test Valley which helps children and young persons under 18 who care within their own families. They currently support 36 young carers with their youngest child being 5, and their oldest 16.

RYCP is a very small charity which relies heavily on local volunteers ("Befrienders") who give literally hundreds of hours to support both these children and their families. Befriending is the lifeline these children often need and can make a huge difference to their daily lives.

Roke’s employees are driving a mixed programme of activities to support the charity throughout the year. Aside from fundraising, they are offering work experience opportunities, running "Science Workshops" and arranging days out for the young carers themselves. The company has pledged to match whatever funds are raised by its employees in support of this programme.

For more information on RYCP please contact Mary Ward on 01794 340039.