HOUNSLOW Council has launched a campaign to mark Carers Week (June 7-13) and ensure the army of 'invisible' carers across the borough get the help and support they need.

There are over 22,000 carers that live in the borough who support a family member or friend, but many are doing it alone or are unaware of the support they can access.

Hounslow Council runs a Carers Assessment programme and anyone who feels that the care they provide is taking its toll, is being urged to get in touch.

Councillor Candice Atterton, Cabinet Member for Adults, Social Care and Health, said: "Carers across Hounslow are holding families together, enabling loved-ones to get the most out of life, making an enormous contribution to society and saving the economy billions of pounds.

"Yet many are stretched to the limit – juggling care with work and family life, or even struggling with poor health themselves.

"Many carers may find themselves caring for someone suddenly and don't know where to go for help.

"They may not realise they are an unpaid carer.

"Carers Week is an opportunity to encourage more people to identify themselves as carers and get the support they need."

Hounslow resident, Sefali, has been looking after her parents for the last 15 years.

She said: "It's important to be recognised as a carer because what you do becomes absorbed into what you think might be 'normal familial responsibilities.'"

Hounslow Council has a programme of free activities and support available during this week as part of Carers Week.