THOUSANDS of unpaid carers are being urged to reach out for vital support.

It is estimated that 83,000 people in Dorset are caring for a loved one, neighbour or friend unpaid.

“You’re looking after someone, but who’s looking after you?” That’s the message from councils to coincide with National Carers' Rights Day, which is today.

Many are unaware that there is a dedicated service available to them offering free information, support and advice, as well as other beneficial services.

Six carers from across the county fronting a campaign to encourage more unpaid carers to come forward and seek support.

Carers living in the area can access help from their local authority’s carers’ support service which offer services including:

• Advice and information

• Carer newsletters

• Events and activities

• Respite support

• Carer discount card

Councillor Jill Haynes, Dorset County Council Cabinet Member for Adult Health, Care and Independence said: “All too often, unpaid carers do not recognise themselves as carers because they are looking after a loved one, friend or neighbour and see it as ‘just something they do’.

"Looking after someone can creep up on anyone and comes in many different forms.

"We want to make sure that anyone who is looking after someone else seeks the help and support that they are entitled to and don’t continue to struggle on their own not knowing what is out there.

"This will greatly improve the outcomes for both for the person they are looking after and also for themselves”.

Residents can find out more information about the carers’ service at: www.crispweb.org or by calling: 01202 458204.