Unpaid carers across Cornwall enjoyed a well-earned break at a free afternoon tea at the Alverton Manor Hotel in Truro.

Special guest Heléna Herklots, chief executive of national charity Carers UK, spoke at the event held to support unpaid carers in Cornwall.

The afternoon tea was held by Promas Caring For People, an award-winning community interest company (CIC) which delivers free training to unpaid carers. Kate Kennally, chief executive of Cornwall Council, and Stuart Cohen, carers’ commissioner at Cornwall Council also attended.

The purpose of the occasion was for unpaid carers to find out more about the support on offer for them. Often people will find themselves in the position of having to care for a loved one without any notice and yet caring for a family member or friend requires a specialised skill set. Promas seeks to equip people with these skills.

Bernie DeLord, one of the directors of the company, said: "People take on unpaid caring roles not really realising the emotional and physical impact it will have on them. The stark reality is that 80 per cent of the carers who have taken our courses have experienced depression, anxiety and physical conditions exacerbated by having to look after someone else. We set up Promas to give people the resources to cope.

"We are grateful for the continuing support from the local community and on a national level. We want to give unpaid carers the right help and support to keep them well and lead more fulfilling lives. Almost as important are events such as these and we put on a number of these throughout the year to give carers a much needed rest from their day to day routine."

You can find out more about Promas Caring for People by visiting promas.co.uk.