CARERS can pick up 'important' skills at a series of free workshops staged by a college.

Adult carers in Oxfordshire aged 19 and older can take part in a project called A Carer's Journey, which is a collaborative venture between Carers Oxfordshire and Oxfordshire Adult Learning.

The latter organisation, based at Abingdon & Witney College, will run the courses at various venues across the county until mid July.

Kay Francis, head of carers support services at Carers Oxfordshire, said: "We know that eight out of 10 carers feel their heath is affected by their caring responsibilities.

"I feel sure this new initiative will be a really positive experience for carers across Oxfordshire.

"Attending this course will give carers a chance to meet others and reduce the feeling of isolation that carers can often feel."

Workshop themes include yoga, first aid, aromatherapy massage, resilience and mindfulness, each encouraging carers to look after their own wellbeing.

Russell Paul, head of community learning at Oxfordshire Adult Learning, described the scheme as 'an important project'.

He added: "It will open up a new learning pathway for many carers, providing them with important skills in a sociable setting.

"It will give them a chance to care for themselves - something which many would have not experienced for a long time or possibly at all.

"There are signs already that it will be a popular project - we’re really looking forward to working with the carers who join us in the coming months."

Carers can pick from several venues and dates - for details, visit carersoxfordshire.org.uk.