SCOTLAND'S young carers do a tremendous job looking after family members and in the process save the country a fortune.
Their task is a challenging one, often physically and emotionally draining and it makes their childhood and youth radically different from what most other young people would recognise.
The young carers festival is a valuable respite from their daily routine and allows these remarkable young people the chance to be carefree, even if only for a short time.
While the festival is a great idea, appreciated by those who attend, there is no doubt there is more support needed all year round to help young carers balance their responsibilities at home with their studies and development.
Various individuals and groups have pledged support, from the Public Health Minister to the Children's Commissioner, who recognise the valuable service young carers provide.
A key part of the festival is officials and politicians who take decisions that affect they carers are invited to hear views and to explain what they are doing to help.
Certainly everyone wants to help, but the test is in listening to the concerns and following up the words with actions that genuinely make a difference.