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Rainham schoolboy from Hartlip wins national award for volunteering

A schoolboy who has raised £3,000 following his little sister’s diabetes diagnosis has won a national volunteering award.

Jayden Beckwith has been given a UK Inspire Award, handed out by Diabetes UK to thank its hard-working volunteers.

The Deanwood Primary School pupil was presented with the accolade Young Person’s Outstanding Contribution by the charity’s chief executive, Chris Askew, and special guest, reggae artist Apache Indian.

Jayden Beckwith, eight, with his sister Ava, five
Jayden Beckwith, eight, with his sister Ava, five

Jayden’s sister, Ava, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2015, when she was aged three.

Mum Adele Beckwith said: “It has had a major impact on our lives. We had to learn all new skills.”

Mrs Beckwith said Jayden has since been determined to help his sister and others who suffer from the same condition.

The family, who live in Hartlip, helped set up the Mid Kent Type 1 Diabetes Group, which now supports more than 60 families.

The eight-year-old has raised £3,000 for Diabetes UK by doing fun runs, pyjama parties and picnics.

Jayden Beckwith with Boom Shack-A-Lak singer Apache Indian
Jayden Beckwith with Boom Shack-A-Lak singer Apache Indian

Last year, his efforts were recognised by the prime minister when he was given a Points of Light award by Theresa May.

Jayden said: “I just want to do what I can to help my baby sister.

“This year I’m planning a lot more stuff – including a treasure hunt and another fun run dressed as a super dog.

“I always tell my friends about type 1 diabetes so they can understand what my sister has to do and how difficult it can be.”

The UK Inspire Awards recognise volunteers who go above and beyond for people with diabetes. An independent panel chooses the finalists and winners in the six categories from hundreds of nominations from across the country.

"I can’t thank Jayden and his family enough for their contribution to our work" - Jill Steaton, Diabetes UK

Jayden won a regional Inspire Award in May and was then judged for the UK-wide awards.

Jill Steaton, from Diabetes UK, said: “I can’t thank Jayden and his family enough for their contribution to our work and the positive difference he has made to the lives of people living with diabetes in the local community.”

Jayden’s head teacher David Bignell said: “We are very proud of his efforts to support his sister and Diabetes UK which have been recognised by this award.”

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