People who dedicate their lives to looking after others are to benefit from a week of special events, thanks to a Bradford-based carers service.

Carer’s Connection, part of Bradford District Care Trust, is marking Carers Week with a host of activities to encourage some of the nearly 50,000 known carers in Bradford to get involved.

From Monday to Friday next week, carers are invited to events across the city to meet new people, take a break from caring, promote positive health and find out more about services available to them.

More than 1,600 carers are already registered with Carers Connection, but Jan Rhodes, carers support co-ordinator, said there are many more who could benefit from extra support.

She said: “Carers Week is an opportunity to bring people who care for others together.

“Many people don’t even realise they’re carers, but if you look after someone who is ill, frail or disabled, you are a carer and it may be impacting on your finances, health, work or social life.

“The aim of the events is to help new carers get involved and show them what help is available. Importantly too, it’s about providing a relaxing environment where they can take a few minutes out of their busy schedules and enjoy themselves.”

The Carers Week events offer opportunities for carers to learn how to manage stress, find out more about keeping themselves and loved ones safe, promote positive health or simply catch up with other local carers with coffee and cakes.

In addition, a large patchwork quilt, designed and handmade by local carers, is set to be unveiled at the HandMade in Bradford exhibition.

The quilt will be on display throughout Carers Week in the former Zavvi building, in Tyrrel Street, before being exhibited at other locations around the city.

For more information about the service or any of the planned events, contact Carers Connection Bradford on (01274) 323323, e-mail carers.connection@bdct.nhs.uk or visit bdct.nhs.uk/carers.