Caregivers in Croydon can voice their views and share their experiences with local services at a support centre forum launching next month.

The new Carers Support Centre meeting will focus on those who care for other adults, giving them a chance to discuss issues that matter to them.

There are around 33,000 people in Croydon caring for a friend, family member or neighbour who relies on them for help due to old age, illness or disability, according to the last Census.

Helen Thompson, Carers Support Centre Manager said: “We know that carers have a lot of experience and understanding of how services are working at a grassroots level.

"Giving carers a voice and listening to their expertise can make a real difference.

"We hope this forum will make Croydon a better place for carers."

Croydon already has a Croydon Parent Carers Forum for parents of disabled children, and a forum for carers of adults with a learning disability. But there is no general forum for carers of adults.

The first forum meeting will be on Tuesday March 26, 1.30pm-3pm at the Carers Support Centre, 24 George Street Croydon CR0 1PB and will continue to meet on a monthly basis.

Local carers who can’t attend meetings can also influence services by joining the Carers Support Centre Forum contact list, and receive updates on other ways to get involved.