UNPAID carers in the district will have their chance to learn about their rights and what help is on offer at an event next week.

Carers Rights Day, which takes place on November 21, is a national campaign bringing together people caring for family members, support charities and local communities.

The campaign is organised by national charity Carers UK, which aims to make life better for unpaid carers.

As part of Carers Rights Day, a number of smaller organisations are hosting events around the country.

Carers can find out more by attending a Carer’s Rights Day event hosted by Carers Northumberland at Merton Hall in Ponteland.

The event takes place next Thursday from 12.30pm, and specialist advisers from local organisations will be on hand to provide information.

Recent research by Carers UK found that 72 per cent of carers responding to a survey said they had suffered mental ill health, while 61 per cent reported physical ill health as a result of caring. In response to this, the event will also have a ‘Carers MOT station’ to offer basic health checks to keep carers healthy.

Annemarie Johnstone, information officer from Carers Northumberland said: “With thousands of carers in Northumberland, we are keen to let them know about their rights and entitlements.

“We also provide vital advice and information to anyone looking after an older, disabled or ill family member or friend to make sure they know how to get financial and practical support.”

There are more than 39,000 unpaid carers living in Northumberland. Carers UK estimated that, across the country, carers save the UK economy £132 billion per year.