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For carer Suzy Fenton, the coronavirus has brought additional challenges.

The 69-year-old from Jarrow has had to shield as she is diabetic and has high blood pressure.

But, along with her husband Peter, she cares for a family friend who is schizophrenic and suffers from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and anxiety.

Suzy, a former nurse, said: "I've had to provide moral support by phone during the pandemic but normally I make his meals for him and provide the reassurance he needs. We look on him as the son we never had.

"We have been friends for more than 20 years. He is coping much better now as we helped him to get support and he is now on the right medication but I still care for him."

Suzy believes it is only right that the work of carers should be acknowledged, particularly during Carers' Week.

Councillor Tracey Dixon, Deputy Leader with responsibility for Independence and Wellbeing at Â鶹ÊÓƵ, said:" There is an army of fantastic carers who devote their lives to caring for relatives and friends and who do so willingly without any financial reward.

"This year, quite rightly, the spotlight has been on our wonderful NHS and key workers but we must not forget those other unsung heroes who go the mile every single day to care for others."

To find out more about the help available to carers, visit www.southtyneside.gov.uk/carers