A CHARITY is inviting unpaid carers to take part in a virtual event as part of an awareness-raising campaign.

Carers Rights Day is a national awareness campaign run by Carers UK and will take place on November 26.

It aims to inform carers of their rights and help them find the support they are entitled to in order to cope with the pressures of caring.

A spokesman for NEWCIS, a charity which has been helping carers in North East Wales since 1995, said: "Whether you are a new carer or have been caring for someone for a while, carers need to know their rights wherever they are in their caring journey.

"Thousands of carers are missing out on potential benefits and support because they do not realise what they are entitled to.

"It is important that you understand your rights and are able to access the support that is available to you for when you should need it.

"Unpaid carers are currently dealing with more challenges than ever before due to the coronavirus pandemic.

"NEWCIS wants to ensure that we can support carers through the imminent difficulties that the current climate is causing.

"NEWCIS is passionate about carers rights and get involved every year.

"This year will be slightly different however and we will be celebrating virtually.

"We’re inviting unpaid carers to our virtual drop in on Monday, November 23 to catch up with other carers and a member of the NEWCIS team for your chance to ask any questions you may have about your rights as a carer.

"We will also be sharing lots of useful information on our website and social media platforms throughout the week.

"Under the Social Services and Wellbeing (Wales) Act 2014 you have a right to request a carers’ needs assessment, have your voice heard when decisions are being made about the help you may need and access to information about local services."

The organisation offers ‘What Matters Conversations' which is a discussion about what matters to carers.

From this, NEWCIS can signpost and refer people to services and organisations to ensure that they are fully supported in accessing financial and practical support relevant to their individual situation.

To find out more about NEWCIS, visit: https://www.newcis.org.uk/