CARERS will be shown how to balance their lives at a conference next week.

The event will be at Darlington Arts Centre on Thursday, ahead of National Carers' Week, which is from June 13 to 17.

Carers will be able to discuss their needs and take part in workshops, as well as receive advice and support from experts.

There will also be the chance to experience taster sessions in relaxation and complementary therapies.

The conference is being organised by Darlington Association on Disability's carers support service, Darlington Primary Care Trust, social services and the Alzheimer's Society.

PCT patient and advice service liaison manager Clare Hinton said: "Finding the right balance is not always easy when you are a carer, but it is essential for the health and wellbeing of the carer that they find the right balance between work, rest and play.

"It is one thing devoting your life to looking after a loved one, but you will not be doing them any favours if you wear yourself out in the process."

The conference will start at 9.30am with refreshments, and will open at 10.15am.

It will end with lunch at 1pm.

To book a place, call conference organisers on (01325) 357533.