As part of National Carers Week, carers in Rutland are being encouraged to contact Rutland County Council and find out what assistance is available to them.

A carer is anyone that looks after a friend or family member who, due to illness, disability, mental health or an addiction, cannot cope without their support.

This year's National Carers Week takes place between 8 and 14 June, celebrating and recognising the vital contribution made by the UK's 6.6 million carers.

Carers do not get paid for the support they provide and Rutland County Council is keen to make sure any carers in Rutland know about the help and assistance that is available to them locally.

Coun Alan Walters, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, said: "Carers do a huge amount to look after friends and loved ones and often don't realise that they themselves are entitled to help and advice.

"Recently, carers have also had to deal with the challenge of providing care and support in the face of COVID-19, with all the added pressure this has brought.

"We have a dedicated Carers Team who are here to support Rutland carers, whatever the circumstances. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you would like to know more about Carers Services, the help and support that's available to carers, or just to talk about your caring role. We're here to listen and to help."

Carers can contact the Council and arrange to speak to someone from Rutland's Carers Team by calling: 01572 758249 or emailing: carersteam@rutland.gov.uk.

This includes access to Rutland's Admiral Nurses for anyone caring for a friend or family member with dementia.

You can also find out more online by visiting: www.rutland.gov.uk/carers.