YOUNG carers staged a screening of films they made, including one with an antibullying message.

The carers from Southend learnt how to write scripts, direct, film and edit their own original work before showing them at a special screening at Sealife Adventure Centre.

The films were made possible by arts charity Create, which leads groups of youngsters, who all care for relatives, and transform them into filmmakers, directors, actors and editors in an intense three-day programme led by professional filmmaker Aoife Twomey.

Two groups of carers from the Integrated Youth Support Service in Shoebury took part in the project.

Digital data specialists Clicksco helped fund the project along with the Queen’s Trust.

Nicky Goulder, chief executive of Create, said: “Young carers are required to undertake adult responsibilities far too early and this project gives them time for themselves to be creative with their peers and to be young people.”

Steve Shutts, of Clicksco, added: “We take great pleasure in being able to support these enterprising young people as they strive to share their own messages with a wider audience, support that is being delivered through our partnership with Create.”