MIDDLESBROUGH Social Services has marked National Carers Week by launching a carers information pack at Middlesbrough Central Library.

It gives information and advice and explains benefits and allowances available to carers.

The week is intended to raise awareness at all levels of government and society of the emotional, physical and financial demands involved in caring for a loved one.

Carers may be looking after an elderly, ill or disabled partner, relative or friend full-time or just helping someone out on a regular basis by doing their shopping or housework.

Redcar and Cleveland Carers Planning Group has put together a series of events across the borough.

The Health Bus is at Skelton Civic Centre and Warsett School, Brotton, today, and at Guisborough, Redcar and Saltburn later in the week.

Other events during the week include an information site in Morrisons, at Berwick Hills, a pop-in session at Middlesbrough Mind, in the John Paul Centre, in Grange Road, a discussion session at the Mind Centre, and an information stall in Boots in Linthorpe Road.