YOUNG people who look after loved ones were urged to take time for themselves at a special carers awareness event.

It was arranged by the local Barnardo’s Thrive group, which has nearly 30 young people who have a significant caring role at home for a parent, family member, or sibling.

Held to mark Young Carers Awareness Day, the event also aimed to raise awareness of the challenges faced by young carers and campaign for greater support.

A variety of activities were held and the young people were able to pick up advice on practical day-to-day things such as cooking healthy food on a budget.

Support workers from SAMH were on hand to provide advice on the mental health support they could provide.

Morton Community staff and the council's community learning and development team delivered football sessions and Pilates workshops to promote the benefits of exercise activity.

There was also an arts and crafts table, a photo booth and facepainting.

A spokeswoman for Barnardo’s, said: “This year the theme for the day was care for me too, which focused on the mental health and wellbeing of young carers.

“These therapeutic activities focused on self-care in order to support the emotional and physical wellbeing of young carers.

"Many of the activities gave the young carers transferable skills that would support them in their caring role.”

Barnardo’s Thrive helps children aged eight to 16 and its support group helps provide the young people with a regular break from their caring responsibilities.

They can take part in activities including arts and crafts, drama, music, film making, outings and cooking within a peer support environment.