SIR - We've just marked National Carers' Week, and I would like to ask your readers to spare a thought for the tens of thousands of carers in the South of England.

One-in-eight people care for a disabled or older spouse or family member and this number is rising rapidly.

They provide care for their loved ones seven-days-a-week, 365-days-a-year, often without any kind of break, and with very little support. Many have little to look forward to but poverty, illness and becoming disabled themselves.

I work for a charity called Vitalise, which runs an accessible centre for disabled people and carers at Netley Waterside House, in Southampton.

I would like to ask your readers to remember that carers need breaks just as much as the people they care for, and to support our vital work in the region.

To make a donation call 020 7017 3420 or for more information about our breaks, call 02380 453 686.

Craig Rees, Manager, Vitalise Netley Waterside House.