CARERS Support West Sussex is to continue to provide specialist support to the county’s carers.

West Sussex County Council announced the charity has retained the contract to provide a countywide carers information, advice, assessment and support service.

The service includes: a helpline, carer assessments, referrals to carer respite services, individual and group support, carer support in hospital settings, provision of equipment and technology to reduce carer stress and promote independence at home, and help for young adult carers aged 18-25.

A council spokesman said there are an estimated 89,000 ‘family and friends’ carers in the county.

A carer is anyone who cares, unpaid, for a friend or family member who due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction cannot cope without their support.

Peter Catchpole, member for adult social care, said: “Our county’s carers really are our unsung heroes. People may think they are doing what comes naturally, but the care and help they provide is invaluable.

“I am delighted Carers Support West Sussex will continue to support carers through this service and I would like to thank them for their commitment to caring for our carers.

“Our priority and focus is to make sure people in West Sussex who care for others can easily access the highest quality service possible.”

The new contract comes into effect on April 1 and has been awarded to Carers Support West Sussex for five years, with an option for an additional two years.

Visit www.carerssupport.org.uk or call Carers Support on 0300 028 8888.