MANY unpaid carers in York and the surrounding area could be missing out on support because they don't recognise the role they have, health bosses have said.

To mark Carers Week which starts on Monday, an initiative has been set up to reach out to carers who may not realise what help is available to them.

It is estimated that almost one in ten people cares for an ill, frail or disabled family member or friend. The nature of caring means that often people do not identify themselves as carers, thinking of themselves simply as wife, husband, son, daughter, mum or dad helping a loved one.

Throughout next week, York Carers Centre is coordinating a string of events to support carers and raise awareness.

Dr Mark Hayes, chief officer at NHS Vale of York Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Carers can feel isolated and cut off from their local community and this can have a devastating effect on their emotional and physical health.

“We are keen to encourage individuals and organisations to come together to improve how carers in the Vale of York are supported.

“Using our networks and expertise, we want to help our community understand that we all have a role in helping to improve the lives of carers and the people they care for. We will be talking to GP practices across the Vale of York to highlight the vital role they have to play in identifying carers and signposting them to support, advice and information.”

Events will be held throughout the week across the region.

Carers Week 2014

Monday, June 9 - From 9.30am to 3pm at Priory Street Centre there will be Information sessions including with solicitors over the lasting power of attorney and housing for people aged over 50. Another stand will be on Selby market from 9am to 1pm.

Tuesday, June 10 - information stand at Malton Library.

Wednesday, June 11 - Awareness-raising stall at York Hospital and a bus in Parliament Street, York, where carers can call in. The bus will particularly try to reach people who care for someone with a drugs or alcohol problem.

- Carers’ Service in York Minster 1.20pm, followed by refreshments in Chapter House. Free for carers, former carers, cared-for, supporters – everyone welcome.

- Coffee morning at the Carers Centre in Selby from 11am to 1pm.

- From 5.30pm to 7.30p, there will be an information sharing opportunity for family carers of adults with autism/asperger’s at West Offices, York, For more details please contact becky.allright@nhs.net

Thursday, June 12 - Awareness raising stand at Sainsbury’s Monk Cross.

- Stand on Tadcaster market from 9am to 2pm.

Friday, June 13 - Awareness raising stand at York Hospital.