A Maldon-based charity for the young carers of Essex has made a five-minute film to mark Young Carer Action Day tomorrow (Tuesday, 16 March).

This moving but inspirational short video gives an insight into the work of Action for Family Carers in Brickhouse Farm, Poulton Close, through the eyes of some of the children, young people and families the charity supports.

A spokesperson for the charity said: "As you can imagine Covid and the lockdowns have put an immense amount of pressure on unpaid family carers but especially young carers who have been at home during the lockdowns.

"For many their caring role has more than doubled during this time.

"The anxiety that goes with being a young carer has also increased as they often care for someone who is clinically vulnerable so worry about them catching Covid."

The charity supports young carers across Essex by offering one-to-one and group support in school, young carers' clubs and respite activities.

The spokesperson added: "Some of the young carers we work with are just five years old and it is estimated that there are 800,000 Young Carers in the UK. Many of them will not be identified until they are in their teens.

You can find out more about the charity and how to support their work by visiting the website at the link here.