A DUDLEY couple are encouraging carers from across the borough to get involved in National Carers Week, which kicks off on Monday June 10.

Carers Phil and Maureen Westwood, who look after an elderly parent, have been urging those in a similar situation to their own to attend one of the events in order to seek help and support.

Phil said: "Myself and my wife have cared for my elderly parents for many years, my father sadly passed away late last year and we are still caring for my mum who is in her 80s and has dementia.

"There are times when caring for a loved one can be all consuming and very overwhelming, we have certainly faced periods of isolation and financial strain as a result of our caring responsibilities.

"The Dudley Carers Hub has been a centre when we could meet other carers, talk to people who understand and access help and support. The staff have been incredible, truly a godsend to us, and I would encourage any carers who are struggling with the role to get in contact with them."

The Carers Hub team will host a drop in session at the Lye Project on Lye High Street from 10.30am to 2pm on Monday June 10. They will be on hand to provide advice about being a carer.

People affected by dementia and their carers can attend a similar session at the Brett Young Dementia Gateway on Tuesday June 11 between 10.30am and 3pm, on Old Hawne Lane in Halesowen.

A 'carers keep active session' takes place on Wednesday June 12 which is an activity session for carers and the person they care for, which will focus on easy strength and balance exercises.

People can also speak to a member of the Carers Hub team at two ‘getting carers connected’ drop in events. They will be held at Stourbridge Cop Shop in the Ryemarket on Thursday June 13 and Sainsburys supermarket, Withymoor Village, Brierley Hill on Friday June 14. Both events run from 10am to 3pm and will provide information, advice and guidance on issues for carers.

Councillor Nicolas Barlow, cabinet member for health and adult social care, said: "The work of carers who look after friends, family members and loved ones is all too often over looked and sadly we know that a lot of carers are at risk of becoming isolated.

"The Dudley Carers Hub does an incredible job of helping carers to access help and support and keeping people connected and I am delighted that they are organising this event to once again raise awareness and bang the drum for those who devote so much of their lives to the wellbeing of others."

For more information on Dudley Carers Hub call 01384 818723.