Each year 121,320 people take up a caring role in Wales yet Carers UK’s research shows that many take years to recognise their caring role and miss out on support as a result.

There are around 6.5 million unpaid carers across the UK who provide care and support to family, friends and neighbours, saving the country an estimated £132 billion each year -; the equivalent cost of a second health service.

Carers Rights Day is an important opportunity to thank the selfless individuals -; including over 9,000 in Newport East -; who provide unpaid care for loved and make a huge contribution to our society. Too often they go without the support they need because they simply don’t know what support is available or don’t see themselves as a carer. We must all play a role in helping to identify and support people who are looking after ill, older 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.

For more information and advice about caring, go to www.carersuk.org/help-and-advice

For information about Carers UK’s Carers Rights Day campaign go to www.carersuk.org/carersrightsday