Many local residents are carers, but don't see it as a profession as the person they are caring for is a loved one or friend.

Although they care for them out of the goodness of their hearts, they are actually classed as 'carers' and are entitled to many benefits through the Commonwealth Carer Respite and Carelink Centre.

Sometimes these compassionate carers tend to forget about their own needs because they are too busy looking after the other person, and the purpose of the meeting was to explain that it is essential to look after yourself as well - not only will this make you a better person, but also a better carer.

Gurmelo Kaur Gill from the Commonwealth Carer Respite and Carelink Centre addressed the meeting and stressed the point that carers need to make time for themselves as it is essential for their health and wellbeing.

"Taking a break is important not just for the carers' well being, but also may be needed at times when carers are obligated to attend other commitments, such as a wedding, funeral, or other engagement, or if a person is just in need of a break from caring," Ms Gill said.

Commonwealth Carer Respite also provide emergency respite services for carers. "This service can be used in emergency situations such as if you come down with an illness and are unable to care for your loved one," she said.

Respite is a break from the responsibility of looking after someone. It may be for a few hours, a day, a night or even weeks, and is a way of relieving the stress of being a carer.

"Many people don't feel comfortable having a stranger come in to clean their house and cook their food whilst their permanent carer is away, so Carer Respite organise the temporary carer to visit a day prior to introduce themselves," Ms Gill said.

So many people wonder what they are eligible for and what they aren't, and some are still confused as to what's out there for them.

The Carelink Service 1800 number (1800 052 222) offers all the answers. It is a toll free number and 95 per cent of Carelink services are able to be organised over the phone.

As for local carers who have called for a service closer to home, Neighbour Aid is still aiming to trial a local support group for carers, rather than them having to travel to Newcastle for these types of services.