FOLLOWING the casting of 2,749 votes, Lakeside Shopping Centre has announced its new charity partner is Thurrock Young Carers.

With over 36% of the vote, Thurrock Young Carers offers essential support to young people caring for loved ones affected by illness, disability, autism, mental health challenges or substance misuse.

The charity provides respite activities for young carers, giving them a much-needed break from their caring responsibilities, while also working closely with other professionals to ensure young people and their families receive the best possible support. Thurrock Young Carers also works with local schools to identify young carers and aid those registered with the charity, helping them to reach their fullest potential.

As Lakeside's official charity partner, Thurrock Young Carers will work closely with the centre throughout 2026, benefiting from a dedicated programme of fundraising activity, onsite visibility, and opportunities to engage with millions of visitors across the year.

The partnership follows Lakeside's public vote, which invited the local community to have their say on the charity they would most like to see supported by the centre. Thurrock Young Carers was selected from a shortlist of amazing local causes, reflecting the strength of public support for its vital work across the local area.

Support from Lakeside will help Thurrock Young Carers reach more young carers in the community, while raising awareness to ensure more young people can access the support they need to flourish.

Nancy Foster, Centre Director at Lakeside Shopping Centre, commented: "We're delighted to announce Thurrock Young Carers as Lakeside's new charity partner. The response to our public vote has been fantastic, and it's clear this is a cause that really resonates with our visitors and the wider Essex community.

"We know that young carers take on responsibilities far beyond their years, often while managing school, friendships and their own wellbeing. Thurrock Young Carers plays an incredibly important role in making sure these young people feel supported, and we can't wait to shine a light on the amazing work that they do."

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Liam Maclennan, Project Coordinator at Thurrock Young Carers, added: "Being selected as Lakeside Shopping Centre's Charity Partner of the Year will create valuable opportunities for Thurrock Young Carers and the families we support. This partnership will help raise awareness of the challenges young carers face across Thurrock, while also supporting fundraising opportunities that can directly enhance activities, respite breaks, wellbeing support such as counselling, and social opportunities for young carers.

"Working alongside such a well-known shopping centre will also help us reach more hidden young carers, ensuring more young people receive the recognition, support, and opportunities they deserve. We are really looking forward to working closely with Lakeside and the local community."

For more information about Thurrock Young Carers, visit www.carerscentre.org.uk orwww.youngcarerscentre.org.uk.