A PROMISE to reach out to as many carers as possible has been made by East Sussex County Council as part of a national awareness campaign.

Carers Week, which runs from Monday, June 9 to Sunday, June 15, aims to improve the lives of carers and the people they care for.

As part of this year’s event, individuals, organisations and local authorities are being asked to pledge their support to the Carers Week Quest, which encourages people to work together to ensure those eligible for support receive it.

East Sussex County Council has pledged to: “East Sussex County Council pledges to reach out to as many carers as we can. We will work with our partners to hold a range of information events around the county to raise awareness of the support and services available to carers.”

All promises made as part of the campaign can be viewed at www.carersweek.org/get-involved/pledge-wall

“About one in eight of us cares for an ill, frail or disabled family member or friend. Most don’t recognise themselves as carers and many are unaware of the support available,” said Cllr Bill Bentley, East Sussex County Council’s cabinet member for adult social care.

“Without the right level of support, life can be very difficult for carers. It is vital that we play a key role in recognising those people and ensuring they are offered help and advice.”

He added: “Adding our pledge to the Carers Week Quest demonstrates how important we think these support services are and our commitment to working with others to ensure no-one is left struggling to cope.”

To find out more about Carers Week and how to get involved visit www.carersweek.org

To find out more about the support available to carers visit www.eastsussex.gov.uk/socialcare/carers