Philip Dunne MP has teamed up with Miss Great Britain 2006-7, Preeti Desai, and pledged his support for Carers Week 2007 (11-17 June). Philip and Preeti are drawing attention to the UK's six million carers - people who look after a loved one who is either ill, frail or disabled - to help them gain the recognition and support they desperately need.

"My Life as a Carer" is the theme for Carers Week, and a survey of 3,500 carers has revealed the immense impact caring can have on every aspect of their life including health, finances, career and relationships.

Two out of every three carers (66%) admitted that their personal relationships had suffered as a direct result of caring, with 60% revealing they have little quality time together with their partners. Two thirds (67%) admitted to being financially worse off, with a quarter (28%) unable to support their family properly. An alarming three-quarters of carers had not had a break from their caring role in the past 12 months.

Carers Week will highlight the services available to help ease the burden of caring and ensure carers lives are changed for the better.

Mr Dunne said "I am delighted to support Carers Week. There are six million carers in the UK, including many in the Ludlow Constituency.

I helped organise a meeting last week in Bridgnorth for carers of adults with learning difficulties. We heard some heart-rending stories of the difficulties they face. Their commitment is magnificent but it takes its toll. One of their greatest concerns is to ensure there is adequate and appropriate care for their relative when they are gone.

I hope that by supporting Carers Week, more of my constituents who are dedicated to looking after someone will find out what services and support are available to them locally."

Mr Dunne has also signed up to a parliamentary Early Day Motion which calls for an updated and improved National Carers Strategy.