People in Staffordshire are being invited to nominate unpaid carers for this year's Dignity in Care Awards.

Staffordshire County Council is calling on residents to submit nominations to the annual Staffordshire Dignity in Care Awards, which aim to celebrate individuals who go above and beyond to support others.

The call for nominations - including for dedicated category recognising unpaid carers - coincides with Carers Week, which runs from 8 to 14 June and recognises carers across the country.

The county council revealed that in Staffordshire, around 82,000 people, nearly 10 per cent of residents, provide unpaid care each week, including more than 1,600 young carers. Their contribution is estimated to be worth £2.6 billion a year.

Martin Rogerson, Cabinet Member for Health and Care at Staffordshire County Council, said: "Unpaid carers are at the heart of our communities, providing vital support to loved ones every single day.

"Carers Week is an important moment to recognise their contribution, but also to highlight the support available to them.

"Through the Dignity in Care Awards, we want to shine a spotlight on these everyday heroes and ensure they feel valued and appreciated."

The Dignity in Care Awards celebrate those who support adults only and all nominations must relate to care delivered to a Staffordshire resident. This includes providers based outside the county, such as those in Stoke-on-Trent or any organisation delivering care to a Staffordshire resident.

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Carers Week is a national campaign raising awareness of caring and the challenges unpaid carers face, while highlighting their vital role in communities.

The county council ahas also directed unpaid carers towards local support available through Staffordshire Together for Carers, which works with partners to provide advice, information and practical help to adult and young carers across the county. Support can include short breaks, counselling, opportunities to meet other carers and advice on benefits carers might be entitled to.

Nominations for The Dignity in Care Awards close on 1 July and applications can be made here.