Unpaid carers across the borough could be eligible for the coronavirus vaccine as part of the ongoing vaccination programme.

Under priority group six which is currently rolling out, unpaid carers of family members and friends who receive carers allowance are eligible for the vaccine. It also applies to those who are the sole or primary carer for someone elderly or with a disability who are at an increased risk and considered clinically vulnerable.

Carers should receive a letter inviting them for the vaccine and they can book their appointment via the national website or by calling 119.

Anyone who is caring for someone but is not in receipt of carers allowance or registered as a carer with their GP, can email Dudley Carers Hub & Wellbeing Service, or call 01384 818723 to check whether they are currently eligible for the vaccine. Councillor Nicolas Barlow, cabinet member for health and adult social care, said:

"Unpaid carers are incredibly valuable within our communities and I am delighted they are now being invited to come forward and have their vaccine, giving them the reassurance to continue to care for their loved ones or friends, knowing they are protected from the virus.

"We’ve had a fantastic take up of the vaccine so far and as always I would appeal to everyone to come forward and be vaccinated when invited."

For more information, visit dudley.gov.uk.