THOUSANDS of people looking after sick or disabled relatives at home may be missing out on vital benefits and support - which could have a big effect on their pensions.

THOUSANDS of people looking after sick or disabled relatives at home may be missing out on vital benefits and support - which could have a big effect on their pensions.

Carers can find out more by attending a special Carers Rights Day event, organised by Crossroads Care - Waveney on Friday, December 4, at Crossroads Care Centre, 259 London Road South, Lowestoft.

Tim Scott, Welfare Rights Officer, will present two talks at 10am and 2.30pm, - booking is essential, if you are interested, please telephone Julie Ing on 01502 574571.

'In Suffolk we have been working in partnership with the county council and other voluntary organisations to promote Carers Rights Day as widely as possible. We have posters and leaflets in all GP practices, children's centres and libraries.

'We have a variety of events running across the county,' said Ms Ing.

Crossroads Care- Waveney is one of more than 1000 groups across the UK taking part in Carers Rights Day, a national awareness day organised by Carers UK.

The aim of the day is to inform carers of the rights, benefits and services they are entitled to.

Julie Ing, Development Manager said: 'Making ends meet is at the top of everyone's agenda at the moment, but carers face a particularly tough battle to get by. On top of the stresses of caring for a loved one, carers often have to cope with higher bills and the costs of caring whilst being unable to work because of their caring responsibilities. I urge anyone looking after a friend or family member to ring and book a place to attend these events, where they can get advice and information on how to take care of their income'.

Angela Eagle, Minister of State for Pensions and the Ageing Society said: 'Carers play an essential role in our society, their value to those they care for, and to their communities, is immeasurable. We need to make sure that these carers who offer so much support to others are caring for themselves. It is important they are planning for their futures and getting advice.'

Carers UK have produced an information booklet for carers who want information about their entitlements called Looking after Someone? A guide to carers' rights and benefits. A new booklet - Caring about your pension has also been produced. Carers can order copies by calling CarersLine on 0808 808 7777.