The King and Queen visit Barking and Dagenham

At the Barking Learning Centre Community and Family Hub, The King and Queen met organisations to hear how their work is supporting their community. This community-based learning facility houses Barking Library and brings together a wide range of council services, partner organisations, and local community groups. 

Their Majesties met those involved in social prescribing, providing advice on employment, preventing homelessness and encouraging reading. 

The King and Queen also viewed the 'Library of Things' - a facility offered by Barking Learning Centre in which people can borrow infrequently used household items, preventing one-time purchases and ensuring people have access to the items they need to maintain their homes affordably. 

At Barking & Dagenham Rush Green Campus, Their Majesties were joined by college's alumnus, actor Sir Idris Elba, to hear about the technical and professional education courses provided by the college to students. 

Named after Sir Idris, the college's state-of-the-art Idris Elba Studio provides media and production courses to rising local talent.

In the fashion, art and design, plumbing and healthcare workshops, Their Majesties viewed demonstrations of the skills students are learning to help them succeed.

The King and Queen unveiled a plaque to mark the visit and the 65th anniversary of Barking & Dagenham College. 

At Eastbrook Studios, His Majesty met students taking part in Film Barking & Dagenham's Make It Here Learning and Participation programme. 

Designed to provide students with hands-on experience and practical knowledge in real-world film environments, the programme equips young people for a future in the industry. 

During the visit, The King met people taking part in a range of workshops which provide an authentic experience of working as part of a professional film crew.