Caring for carers is the focus of an event which aims to raise awareness of the support available to those in the role across Waveney.

Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT) is working with other local organisations to recognise the often hidden efforts of these unsung heroes in the community.

The event, at Lowestoft Library on Friday, November 24, will provide information, guidance and support for carers, tying in with the national event Carers' Rights Day.

Catherine Phillips, carers lead of NSFT's Waveney Community Mental Health Team based at Victoria House in Lowestoft, said: 'Many carers are very difficult to reach. Particularly those caring for loved ones, family members or friends who have mental ill health, dementia and complex needs in later life.

'These people often identify themselves as doing what anyone else would do if faced with the same set of circumstances. This is why we need to reach as many people as possible on Carers' Rights Day.'

Although the event is open to all carers, the focus is on those who are supporting people with mental health issues. It includes advice on benefits, filling in forms, rent arrears, debt and much more.

'Carers can come on their own or bring the person they support, because there will be plenty that could be of value to them, too,' added Ms Phillips.

'Whatever your question, there will be someone there who knows, or who can access the information you need, or who knows someone who can access it.'

The trust's Recovery College, which offers a carers course, will also be represented at the event, where carers can find out more about other courses which they could be eligible to take.

Other organisations involved in the event include DIAL, Waveney District Council, DWP Lowestoft, Suffolk County Council, Suffolk Family Carers, Great Yarmouth and Waveney Mind, Great Yarmouth and Waveney Wellbeing Service, Shaw Trust and Realise Futures.

The event will run from 9.30am to 12.30pm at the library in Clapham Road South.

For further information, call Ms Phillips on 07766317972 or email catherine.phillips@nsft.nhs.uk. Alternatively you can call Victoria House on 01502 532100 and ask for Ms Phillips or carer assessor Lisa Noakes.