MEMBERS of the Swindon branch of Carers UK will be at Sainsbury's in Stratton on Monday to launch National Carers Week.

The supermarket chain is a national partner of the charity and is keen to raise awareness of the support available to the large number of people who find themselves in the position of having to look after a parent, partner or sick child and are desperate for help.

Mel Dix, senior care practicioner and Sandy Simpson, adult care training manager will be on hand from Noon until 4.30pm to meet customers and colleagues who would benefit from support with all aspects of caring whether legal, financial or physical.

Fiona Prinzi, development and communications director at Swindon Carers Centre is delighted for the organisation to have the opportunity to talk directly with anyone who could be experiencing the very problems for which they exist to offer support.

"It’s all about awareness," she said. "Many people who don’t even think of themselves as carers, soldier on week after week and are often totally oblivious to the support available. It’s important to recognise the situation folk can find themselves in as unpaid carers in order to identify the specific ways in which we can help them."

Val Atwill, store manager at Stratton said: "We know that some of our colleagues are bravely juggling jobs with demanding responsibilities at home.

"And I’m sure that may well apply to some of our customers as well. I would urge anyone experiencing problems to pop in and have a word with Swindon Carers. They really are here to help."