As part of National Carers Week, unpaid carers in need of support are encouraged to learn about and utilise the advice and information available to them.

Cambridgeshire County Council (CCC) is highlighting the challenges faced by unpaid carers for the initiative and recognising the contribution they make to families and communities across the region.

National Carers Week runs from June 5 to June 11, and this year's theme focuses on 'Recognising and supporting carers in the community'.

CCC wants to encourage people to bring their communities together to recognise unpaid carers' "huge contributions" to society and to look out for the people who look after others.

Cllr Richard Howitt, Chair of the adults and health committee for CCC, said: "We all have a role to play in recognising and supporting carers in the community."

"We often hear people say, 'I'm just helping my mum/brother/friend', but regardless of whether it's picking up shopping or providing 24/7 personal care, we can help people access the right information, advice and support so that carers can continue to provide the vital the work that they do."

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Carers are highlighted as needing support for many reasons, and CCC stress that it is important they think about their own mental and physical health and emotional wellbeing as well as the person they are caring for.

Support is available through CCC's partners for anyone who cares for someone else, whether they call themselves a 'carer' or not.

The support can help make the caring role easier and free up more time for carers to take care of themselves.

Cllr Howitt added: "I urge anyone who needs support to get in touch."

CCC's partners include the Cambridgeshire groups Caring Together, which supports adult carers, Centre 33, which supports young carers, and Making Space, which helps carers who look after someone with mental ill health.

Information for carers is available on the County Council website.