Latest: Carers call for changes to assessment methods for government allowance
:Family carers are calling for changes to the way their government allowance is assessed.
The standard rate is €204 a week - however it is means tested and regularly re-evaluated.
National Carers Week aims to highlight the work that these people do and encourage others to help them out.
Carers say they need more recognition and support for the work they do in looking after loved ones.
Around 360,000 carers are being celebrated this week, with people encouraged to lend a hand and give them a well deserved break.
: The 11th National Carers Week gets underway across the country today.
Over 360,000 people in Ireland identify themselves as a family carer, but their efforts often go unnoticed.
It is being officially launched at 10.30am this morning, with 12-year-old Jack Renton, the winner of the Young People's Award, among the guests.
Liam O'Sullivan, coordinator of National Carers Week, says it is important to recognise family carers.
"Every person in Ireland has the chance this week to acknowledge the contribution of our 360,000 family carers," he said.
"This week we said you should focus on doing something for those who contribute to much to Irish society, whether you call in, make a meal, offer help and support or simply give them a call to say 'you are doing something really important'.
"There is really huge value in simply saying thank you."
