'UNSEEN heroes' who care for elderly and vulnerable people will be honoured at an awards ceremony.

The Oxfordshire branches of both Age UK and Action for Carers have opened nominations for their annual Dignity in Care Awards today.

The groups said they want to recognise the work people do to 'see and support' the whole individual, behind their symptoms or care needs.

Since 2012, the awards have recognised and celebrated individuals, care services and organisations that have gone the extra mile in delivering dignity in care.

Nominations are being sought across seven categories including leadership, compassionate communicators, inspirational figures and unpaid carers.

Previous winners have included health professionals, care homes, businesses, unpaid carers and volunteers who have made an outstanding contribution to care in their community.

Kay Francis, head of Action for Carers Oxfordshire, said: "Carers are often hidden in our communities, leaving them feeling unvalued, isolated and lonely.

"On your way to work this morning, how many carers did you see? One out of eight of us is a carer.

"The Dignity in Care Awards allows us to see and celebrate these unseen heroes in our communities”.

See ageuk.org.uk/oxfordshire.