The next meeting of the Helston Carers Forum will take place between 2pm and 4pm on Thursday, August 6, in the Ceremony Room of the One Stop Shop in Helston.

The meetings are run by the Cornwall Carers Service and are free for unpaid carers with the aim of giving them a chance to discuss the issues they face and have their voices heard in a welcoming and confidential environment, with others facing similar problems.

"There are many people in our community who are unaware of the help they can get and who also may not recognise themselves as carers because they look after a loved one or friend," said forums' administrator, Chris Watkin. "Staff from Cornwall Carers Service will be at the meetings, and will be able to give help and advice to carers, including making referrals to Carer Support Workers (CSWs) who work directly with individual carers to help them with any issues they have, including signposting to benefits and services.

"Where issues can’t be resolved at the meeting or by a CSW, we attend various other groups such as the Carers Partnership Board and HealthWatch and are able to raise issues for carers to progress them forward."

All Carers are welcome at the forum and expenses will be considered to enable them to attend. For more information contact Chris Watkin on 01872 243531; e-mail chris.watkin@cornwallrcc.org.uk or go to http://www.cornwallcarers.org.uk.