Over 52,000 Worcestershire residents serving as unpaid carers could be entitled to support, the county council has said.

If you extend help for a few hours or more a week to anyone in a capacity of emotional support or physical care, whether due to frailty, disability, mental health, or substance misuse problems, you may be an unpaid carer.

Serving as a carer, especially for a family member, friend, or neighbour, can be an overwhelming task, as the day-to-day challenges combined with employment can place significant strain on a person's mental and physical wellbeing.

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The council has said it wants to ensure that anyone serving in a carer role is aware of the support specifically tailored to their wellbeing and circumstances, including if they're young or parent carers.

Support exists through the Carers Hub, which is commissioned by the council and delivered by the Worcestershire Association of Carers (WAC).

WAC, an independent charity, delivers carer assessments, and offers assistance, training, and advice through the hub.

WAC said: "We are very pleased to be the commissioned Carers Hub for Worcestershire, a ‘one stop shop’ for carers, encompassing a range of services, including carers assessments and a wide variety of practical and emotional support.

"This Carers Rights Day, we welcome you to join us, understand your rights and access the support, information and services you are entitled to."

Tuesday, November 23 was Carers Rights Day, serving as a reminder of what unpaid carers are entitled to.

These include the ability to request flexible work arrangements, being identified as a carer on your GP patient record, the right to request a free flu vaccination, and the right to a carer’s assessment.

Carers are urged to contact WAC to discuss the support they're entitled to on phone number: 0300 012 4272 (Monday to Friday 9am to 7pm, Saturday 9am to 12pm).