CARERS are calling for more help in their daily struggle to look after relatives and friends at home.

A report by support charity Durham Dales Action For Carers has highlighted the important role the thousands of carers in rural Wear Valley play and their need for extra support.

A survey of carers in Weardale, Crook and Willington, on which the report is based, found that the health of people who care for unwell, frail or disabled friends or relatives can be harmed by the constant demands of the caring role.

Almost all carers questioned spoke of feeling isolated, angry, stressed and emotionally drained.

Some said complaints such as high blood pressure, arthritis and backache have all got worse.

They told of losing their social lives, having no time for hobbies and missing appointments because no one is available to take their place.

They also asked for extra training, advice and information about local services and specific concerns.

In an attempt to provide the extra relief that many carers need, the charity has drawn up a three-year action plan to set out how it can be accomplished.

It has called on support agencies, including social services departments and the Durham Dales Primary Care Trust, to join forces and provide extra services and appoint a mental health worker and parent carer worker.

The charity, formed by Teesdale and Wear Valley Carers Centres, wants to establish befriending and sitting services by 2006 to offer relief to carers.

It is looking to produce information packages and will consider launching a multi-agency roadshow to give first aid, nutrition and handling training.

Charity manager Geoff Kelly said: "Most importantly, we want the role of carers, particularly hidden ones, to be recognised.

"There are thousands of people across the district who save the Government money by looking after partners, parents, children or friends without pay. It is important that we make every effort to care for the carers themselves. If their physical or psychological health deteriorates then it is bad for them and the cared for.

"Hopefully, this report will encourage stronger links between the various relevant agencies and harness their efforts and resources to provide the practical and emotional support carers are telling us they need."