Carers in Norfolk and Suffolk are being given the opportunity to be involved in a pioneering programme to redesign mental health services.

Carers of people with mental ill health are being invited by Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust to join a monthly focus group dedicated to shaping future services, by putting forward thoughts, ideas and suggestions about how services can be improved.

Sharon Picken, from the trust, said: 'Carers have a unique knowledge of mental health and the services we provide.

'They can see better than most how their loved one's wellbeing is changing from day to day, so it is really important to us that carers are put at the heart of everything we do.

'Like all NHS trusts, we are looking at making our money stretch as far as possible, as public sector finances are under pressure. We are developing innovative ways of using that money to ensure we are getting people the right treatments at the right time and in the right places. We need to get it right, and so the involvement of family carers is really important.'

Carers interested in joining should visit www.nsft.nhs.uk and fill out the online form.

Carers who would like to have their say, but cannot commit to monthly meetings, can get involved by calling Greta Neiss on 01603 421421.