A CHARITY is offering help to unpaid carers in the district as the cost-of-living crisis bites.

Carers' Resource has launched a dedicated support page on its website, and will be running various groups and activities through the winter.

The charity says that whilst many people have been hit hard by soaring energy bills and other rising costs, those looking after a relative, friend or neighbour are finding it particularly tough.

Carers' Resource says its staff are trained to advise carers about their rights and the sources of help available to them.

This includes information and guidance on financial issues such as benefits and grants. Emotional support is also provided.

The new webpage – which can be found at carersresource.org/help-with-the-cost-of-living-crisis – features details of potential financial help, energy-saving tips and links to schemes such as clothes and school uniform banks and foodbanks.

Chris Whiley, chief executive officer of Carers’ Resource, says: "Unpaid carers often suffer more than most in times of crisis. If you are looking after a loved one, you are more likely to struggle financially. If you’re caring for someone who is ill, it’s even more crucial that you can keep your home warm.

"We have put together a vast resource of support for unpaid carers across Bradford, Craven, Harrogate and Selby districts. If you can’t find the information you need on our website, please do get in touch and our trained advisors will guide you towards the best sources of help. All the details of our groups and activities are also available on our website and we welcome all unpaid carers to these groups, whether you are new to caring or have been supporting a loved one for many years.

"We will continue to campaign for unpaid carers to receive greater recognition and funding, including an increased carer’s allowance, but meantime we'll do everything we can to support those in need this winter and beyond."

New research by Carers UK, which surveyed more than 12,400 unpaid carers, found that one in six are in debt.

The proportion of carers unable to afford their utility bills has more than doubled since last year – from six per cent to 14 per cent.

It is estimated that there are over 13 million unpaid carers in the UK, although many people do not recognise themselves as carers.

For more about Carers' Resource, visit carersresource.org, call 0808 5015 939 or email info@carersresource.org.