Voluntary sector charity Kingston Carers' Network has been in operation for more than 12 years and provides independent information, support and advice to people who care for someone in the borough.

Carers of whom there are 14,500 in Kingston are defined as people of any age, who voluntarily look after family, friends or neighbours who would otherwise not be able to manage without their help.

Director Val Weston said the network worked closely with Kingston PCT and social services.

She said: "We are still growing to accommodate the increasing number of carers in the borough.

"We are always coming across new carers, some of whom don't identify as carers and others who don't realise we exist.

"Our primary concern is to support those carers through groups, clubs and peer support, because it is important to get input from others in the same position.

"But the most important thing is to listen."

The Carers Equal Opportunities Act 2004 made sure there was more focus on opportunities for carers to lead more fulfilling lives by ensuring information about their rights was available.

The act also ensured that assessments of carers took into account needs for leisure, training and work opportunities, and put emphasis on the need for local authorities to have stronger powers to support carers.

The network has organised its annual carers' week from June 13 to June 19 in conjunction with Community Care and Kingston Carers' Network, with the theme of Work, Rest and Play.

Mrs Weston said: "Carers' Week, during which all activities are free, is a chance to support carers some of whom have to give up work to become carers and to recognise the massive contribution they make to the borough. Each and every one is a hero."

To kick the week off, on Monday, June 13, workers will be out and about in the borough handing out information and advice to people, while on Tuesday, June 14, carers can take advantage of a pampering and information day at the YMCA, Victoria Road, Surbiton from 10am to 4pm with holistic therapies on hand to try.

There is a boat trip to Hampton Court on Wednesday, June 15, while on Thursday, June 16, young carers aged five to 18 can go to a barbecue at the Children's Information Service in Kingston Road, New Malden. The week concludes with a trip to Kew Gardens on Friday, June 17.

For more information, call Kingston Carers' Network on 020 8547 1614.