A NEW carer group celebrated its launch with an official cake-cutting ceremony.

The 25-strong group will meet every two months, at St Helens Council's Lord Street Centre with the next meeting scheduled for Wednesday, September 22.

Advice from social services about support for carers will be available at the meetings which will also provide a social get-together and a chance to discuss mutual problems and the help available.

One in seven people nationally have significant caring responsibilities for a relative, or friend, and in St Helens there are estimated to be more than 20,000 people acting as carers.

New members are always welcome at the group and further information is available from Lorraine Flynn on 01744 612300. For general information about support services for carers, contact Maureen Mellor at Ashtons Green local office on 01744 751732.

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