Coping with the pressures of every day life can be a challenge for most people, but this is especially the case for the UK s six million carers who have dedicated their lives to caring for a loved one.

More than three in every five people in the UK, from all walks of life and backgrounds, will become carers at some time in their lives, looking after someone who is either ill, frail or disabled.

This year, the 13th annual Carers Week (June 11 to 17) aims to highlight the true impact being a carer can have on people s lives - from missing out on a promotion at work, to watching relationships suffer - the effect of caring can be incredibly tough.

But it can also be a rewarding experience, and this is what keeps carers going from day-to-day.

And it is not only adults who are affected.

There are an estimated six thousand children and teenagers in Oxfordshire who help care for relatives who are ill or who have disabilities.

Young carers help care for people in their families in lots of different ways, such as housework and chores, preparing meals, looking after younger siblings, personal care for older relatives and giving emotional support.

Most children help out around the house, but a carer may find they have so much to do that it is hard to find time for anything else.

They may miss out on school or time with friends, not get enough sleep or hav alot of worries to carry.

They may feel unable to spend time away from the person who needs care, or that they have too many responsibilities to go into training, work or further education.

If you are a young carer, it is worth getting in touch with your local Young Carer s Project, even if it is only to mee other young people in the same situation.

They provide free, confidential advice and support, as well organising club evenings, events and trips.

To find out what events for carers of all ages are taking place near you, contact the organisations listed on this page or visit the website: www. carersweek.org.uk