Croydon is hosting Carers Week with a series of events to raise awareness and improve the lives of those who look after loved ones.

Running from next Monday (June  to next Sunday, the week is an annual campaign across the country which champions the work carers do, while highlighting the support available.

In Croydon events taking place include tea dances and pampering sessions, lunch clubs and creative arts.

The week is preceded by a carers information day from 10am to 4pm on Thursday in the Arnhem Gallery at Fairfield Halls.

There will be more than 50 organisations at the event providing advice on issues such as benefits, housing, transport, special educational needs, respite and leisure.

Specialist advisors will also be on hand to talk about being a parent carer, a young carer, an older carer, disabled parent or a carer for someone with a specific condition.

The council’s executive director for adult services, health and housing, Hannah Miller, said: “Carers in Croydon carry out an invaluable service in looking after loved ones who may have an illness or disability.

“Without the work of carers, our health services would not be able to cope.

“It’s therefore vital that we recognise, celebrate and support our borough’s carers, which is what this week is about, as well as giving them a much needed break.”

Call the Carers Information Service on 020 8469 9339 for more information about the information day.