LAST WEEK saw celebrations across the borough in honour of those caring individuals who look after the most vulnerable people in our community. National carers week started with a bang as friends and families danced their socks off at Dagenham and Red

LAST WEEK saw celebrations across the borough in honour of those caring individuals who look after the most vulnerable people in our community.

National carers' week started with a bang as friends and families danced their socks off at Dagenham and Redbridge football stadium in Victoria Road.

Carers and their patients enjoyed an afternoon tea dance between 1pm and 4pm and later there was a family disco from 5.30pm to 8.30pm.

And any carers who did not fancy a dance on Tuesday June 9 could head over to Redbridge College for a day of beauty and pampering.

If anyone deserves to take a day off and relaxes it is definitely the hard working carers of Barking and Dagenham.

Beauty students at the college in Little Heath offered a range of treatments including manicures and facials.

There was also a hairdressing day at Redbridge College on Thursday June 11, where carers were treated to a free wash cut and blow-dry.

Throughout the week there were loads of information days where Carers of Barking and Dagenham offered advice on services for those who look after an elderly or disabled relative or neighbour.

Carers of Barking and Dagenham manager, Sue Burnie, said: "This week is about celebrating what carers do.

"But for us as an agency it is also about finding those hidden carers.

"The people who care for a loved one or a neighbour and don't realise they are a carer and are entitled to support and relief.

"It can be a very isolating experience, caring for someone on your own.

"Carers of Barking and Dagenham are here to help."

The agency also has a dedicated group of young volunteers who help care for others in the community.