MORE than 10,000 people in Newport are believed to be caring for a loved one who is disabled, frail or ill.

But some may not even class themselves as a "carer" and may be missing out on much-needed help and benefits.

They are entitled to an assessment of their needs even if the person they care for already has services to assist them.

Events being held in the city next month are aimed at reaching carers and making sure they get all the support they need and deserve.

Carers Week, June 9-15, will highlight the valuable contribution unpaid carers make to the well-being of society and is being supported nationally by actress Sally Lindsay who plays Shelley in Coronation Street. Organisations in Newport such as Age Concern, Alzheimer's Society, Crossroads, Hafal and Young Carers, will take part in a week of activities.

"We are very excited about our plans for this year," said Christine Hockey, carer support worker for the Gwent Association of Voluntary Organisations (GAVO).

The main event takes place at Newport Leisure Centre on Wednesday, June 11, between 11am and 3pm.

"We aim to give as much information as possible on benefits, health and other services available to the carer plus opportunities to try out various alternative relaxation therapies. "As an extra way of saying 'thank you' will be giving free energy-saving light bulbs and free day passes for the Fitness First gymnasium in Newport."

Carers Week theme this year is 'Opportunities for Carers - employment, learning and leisure' so a survey is also being conducted among the city's top seven employers to find out how they identify and support carers in their employment.

Mrs Hockey said there were many thousands of carers in the UK who gave freely of their time and energy to look after a family member or friend.

"Many people who are carers do not recognise themselves as such and therefore miss out on benefits and services which are theirs by right so we are keen to reach as many carers as possible through our main event on July 11." However, people can find out now about available services at Carers Contact, the information centre in Newport Provisions Market, which has a wide variety of information. Telephone Carers Contact on 01633 258376 or call in between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday.