ALARMING new statistics have revealed that 75 per cent of Warrington carers suffer from ill health as a result of their caring activities.

The results come from a major national survey and it was discovered that stress and depression were cited as the most common complaints.

In response, Crossroads Caring for Carers, which provides 1,200 hours of support each week, has joined the call for the NHS to provide regular health checks for carers in Warrington.

Sean Barrett, business manager for Crossroads Caring for Carers, said: "The fact is that one in three people involved in looking after someone special spend more than 20 hours a week in that role. For one in seven, it's more than 50 hours each week. For many others, it can be as much as 24 hours a day, seven days a week."

The national survey also revealed that nine out of 10 carers believe they should be offered a health check.

However, the reality is that only one in four carers have been offered a check by their GP. Warrington carers who need support can ring Crossroads Caring for Carers on 0151 222 1970.

l WARRINGTON Hospital staff who look after a relative, friend or neighbour enjoyed a range of complementary therapies as part of national Carer's Week.

Staff were invited to Warrington Hospital Social Club on Monday to find out about services available to them including support groups, financial assistance and counselling. Organisations attending the event included Warrington Social Services, the Direct Payments Office, Macmillan nurses, Warrington Carers Centre and the Warrington Disability Partnership.

Joanne Drewett, Working Families Advisor for North Cheshire Hospitals NHS Trust, said: "Often people do not realise the effects caring for another person can have on their own health and wellbeing. We want to ensure our staff are fully supported and can achieve a healthy balance between their caring and work responsibilities."