WARRINGTON North MP Helen Jones is backing a campaign to help identify carers who live without the support they need.

In the run up to Carers Rights Day on Friday, Mrs Jones voiced has called for people caring for ill or disabled loved ones to come forward in order to gain access to the financial and practical support they are entitled to.

She said: "Carers are fulfilling a vital role in our society, but too often they go without the support they need because they don’t know about the support available.

“We must all play a role in helping to identify and support people who are looking after ill, frail or disabled loved ones and making sure they get the right information and advice about the support they are entitled to as early as possible.”

There are currently 10,517 carers in Warrington North and around 6.5 million unpaid carers in the UK who provide care and support to family, friends and neighbours - saving the country an estimated £119 billion each year.

Carers UK chief executive Helena Herklots said: “Caring can be tough and finding out what support is available can feel like finding your way through a maze of information.

"It’s essential that carers are given information and advice to guide them early so they don’t miss out on vital support."

“Without help and assistance carers can find themselves facing financial hardship, health problems, emotional stress and relationship breakdown.

"This has serious consequences for individuals and families and for employers and the UK economy as a whole."

For more information visit carersuk.org or call the advice line on 0808 808 7777.