A DAY of fun is being planned for carers of people with severe mental illnesses in County Durham.

The free event will be held by Rethink Carers One to One Link (Cool) County Durham in Trevelyan College, Durham, between 10am and 3.30pm, on Wednesday, September 8.

It is aimed at people who look after someone with a severe mental illness, such as schizophrenia, manic depression, clinic depression, personality disorders or any form of psychosis.

The event is designed to provide a break for carers, who often suffer stress-related illnesses themselves.

Cool worker Marnie Jobling said: "The whole day is about fun, relaxation and expression. Where else can carers get to try tai chi, laughter therapy, salsa or belly dancing, reflexology and Indian head massage for free?"

Miss Jobling said she was delighted that funding had been secured to allow the event to go ahead.

She said: "Everybody needs a change and time off occasionally. Taking a break from caring is not an admission of failure, nor is it saying you don't care.

"What it is saying is that you are human and taking a break from caring, no matter how long or short, can be invaluable for reducing the psychological and emotional stress faced by many carers.''

Places must be booked in advance by calling Miss Jobling on (01388) 766456.