This June, I am proud to be just one of many 'famous faces' lending their support to Carers Week 2008 – an annual campaign that pays tribute to, and celebrates, the wonderful work carried out by the millions of people who care for a family member or friend.

Around six in ten of us – from all walks of life – will become carers at some time in our lives, looking after someone who is ill, frail or disabled. I have the utmost respect for these people as I know, from a personal experience, just how draining caring for a loved one can be on both a physical and emotional level.

Wanting to look after our loved ones is human nature – but this sometimes comes at a price with many carers telling us they often have to sacrifice their own health and well-being.

Taking a break, a holiday or even time out to visit the doctor is just not an option. Carers deserve as much support and recognition as they can get – and more.

That's why I'm helping the team at Carers Week encourage these "fantastic folk" to seek support and find out more about the resources and advice available.

In backing the campaign this year, I hope I can help to raise awareness of this worthwhile cause and show carers that people do care about them too.

To find out where you can get help, please log onto www.carersweek.org

Paul O'Grady

Comedian and Presenter