A drop-in centre will provide respite for youngsters caring for a sick parent or sibling.
Castle Point Crossroads is behind the scheme to convert a factory unit on Charfleets Farm Way, Canvey, into the centre for young carers.
Chairman of directors, John Glazier, is awaiting planning permission from the council to see if the project can go ahead.
He said: "The Young Carers Project started with five young carers in 1997 - we now have 64 on our books.
"The centre will be for young people who have the burden of looking after a sick family member.
"They can go along and talk to someone, get guidance, play table games and do their homework.
"We are hoping to get a grant for a bank of computers."
The project has been helped by Castle Point councillor Dave Wells who has promised to fit a gas boiler and radiator and decorate the new premises.
He said: "I like to support them - they are unsung heroes. It is a tremendous organisation."
An application for the change of use of the facility is being dealt with by the council's planning department.
Published Wednesday, April 9, 2003
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