A CHARITY dedicated to improving the lives of unpaid carers is inviting the community to recognise their vital contribution.

During Carers Week 2023, Carers Northumberland is shining the spotlight on unpaid carers across the county.

Carers Week (June 5-11) is an annual awareness campaign that celebrates and recognises the UK’s unpaid carers – supporting family members and friends who are older, have a disability, mental or physical illness or need extra help as they grow older.

Debra Blakley, chief executive of Carers Northumberland, said: “Unpaid carers are valued assets to our community, we want to shine a light on the amazing job unpaid carers do and to let them know they are appreciated.

"We want carers to know they do not need to do this alone. We want carers to make themselves known so they can access the support and services on offer to help them in their caring role.

"During Carers Week, we have organised some exciting day trips out across Northumberland for carers and their supporters, this is an opportunity for us to let carers know how much they are appreciated and valued.

"We invite everyone to support Carers Week this June and show their support to the unpaid army of carers in Northumberland.”

Carers Northumberland, along with Carers UK, Age UK, Carers Trust, Motor Neurone Disease Association, Oxfam GB, The Lewy Body Society and Rethink Mental Illness have come together to help carers access information, guidance and support they need to help them in their caring role.