An inspirational volunteer who helps children with learning disabilities has been nominated for our Young Citizen Award.

Laura Klein, of Kelston Road, Barkingside, has been put forward for our monthly award as a result of her extensive work with children and adults in Redbridge.

The 21-year-old, who has learning difficulties, began her journey in the voluntary sector as a service user at Barnardo’s Indigo Project in Granville Road, Ilford.

Team manager, Jacquie Williams, said: “She was very quiet and did drama in the theatre workshop service with us for a few years.

“Now she volunteers with us in the children’s centre and staff love her – she is fabulous, very nurturing and caring and supporting.”

Laura also volunteers at ELHAP, an adventure playground for children and young adults with disabilities in Woodford Green.

Again, she had been a user of the service first.

She said: “I support them once they have finished school and look after the children and play with them.”

She supports young people with learning difficulties during the transition into adulthood and more independent living, which is something she has first hand experience of.

Her mum, Debbie Klein, said: “She is a really hard worker and a very busy person. She was given a volunteer award from the mayor about two weeks ago – I am very proud of her.”

Laura is now living semi-independently.

She is supported in everything she does, from managing her finances to cooking.

As a volunteer she can repay the community for the support she receives by giving back and helping others.

She hopes to continue her volunteering work with children in the future.