CARERS in need of support and advice or just a friendly chat can take advantage of a new town centre service.

South Cheshire Carers Project has started weekly drop-in sessions at Congleton Library for local carers.

The initiative is responding to what is perceived as an unmet need from local people, and the two-hourly sessions are held every Tuesday between 1pm and 3pm.

"Carers can be relatives or friends who care for someone who is getting old, a child with a disability, a person with a mental health problem or someone with a drugs or alcohol problem,'' said project co-ordinator Ruth Bolton.

"The project is aimed at offering people a local weekly drop-in session, where they can come and get information and advice, or just pop in to talk to someone.

"Carers can feel isolated and need a break, and we offer people the chance to have a chat and a drink as well as practical information about benefits and services they might find useful.''

The project has funding for three years, and the Congleton sessions, which are held in the library meeting room, were launched by borough mayor Rod Fletcher.

Weekly sessions are also held at Greenleaves, off Crewe Road, Sandbach, every Wednesday from 10am to midday.

For more details ring 01606-351500.

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