Last Thursday marked Young Carers Awareness Day and everyone at Eastbrook School in Dagenham came together to do something positive on the day.

All staff and students at the school wore a yellow ribbon to show their support and had to pay £1 to take part.

The young carers, who are students of the school, enjoyed a special lunch with Headteacher Mr Frith, Executive Headteacher Mr Gillard and the school governors.

Paul Frith, Headteacher of Eastbrook School said: “These amazing young people take responsibility for the care and support of the adults and siblings around them.

“This is a very demanding and challenging role to take on at such a young age and we wanted to show them how much we value and admire the contribution they make to the lives of their loved ones.”

In total, the school raised £800 for the Young Carers cause and the money will go towards giving them life experiences that many take for granted.

Councillor Evelyn Carpenter, Cabinet Member for Educational Attainment and School Improvement said: “Young carers do some incredible work and it is only right that they are acknowledged and rewarded for their selfless contribution.”

“I am delighted to see that their fellow pupils, staff and governors are supporting them and raising money to give them every opportunity in life.”

Find out more information on our Young Carers webpage.