Thousands of pounds has been given to a charity supporting Essex young adult carers.

Maldon-based Action for Family Carers, which helps and supports people who are responsible for a family member’s day-to-day care, was given £42,000 by the Co-operative.

James Clarke, CEO of Action for Family Carers, said: “Young carers are often the glue that hold families together and thanks to this money we can develop the services these young people need and deserve.”

There are currently 62 young adult carers in the Maldon area and 146,000 unpaid carers in Essex.

The money will be used to enable Action for Family Carers to tackle feelings of isolation and provide much needed breaks, information and support for young adult carers.