Ref. 30918-13THERE aren't many people who would work full-time in a demanding job for less than a penny an hour.

But that's what carer Steve Wilson does 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Most people wouldn't think twice about helping their grandparents around the house or tending to a child's needs.

But when the need is constant, even carers like Steve can get worn down.

That is why Carers' Week is such an important event for the 16,000 selfless, unsung people in Swindon who look after relatives or friends with illnesses or disabilities.

Steve, 28, of Freshbrook, says he wouldn't swap his role as full time carer for his wife Tracy and two children, but admits it often gets tiring.

Steve said: "Sometimes I do compare my life with other men the same age but I wouldn't change what I've got.

"When we got married two years ago it was in sickness and in health and I stick by that.

"But Carers' Week means we get a bit of pampering which is nice every now and then."

Tracy, 32, was diagnosed with MS three years ago and has suffered from depression since the birth of her first child, Ethan, four. The couple also have two-year-old Jemma.

Steve said they just about survive on disability allowances and their carer benefits.

"I became a full time carer because we couldn't have afforded to pay for an outside carer," he said.

"I'm on call 24-seven, and have worked out that my carers' benefit earns me a quarter of a penny an hour.

"But being here does have its advantages.

"I was able to see my children take their first step, and say their first words, and I get to spend time with my wife.

"There is help for carers in Swindon, like Focus it's just a question of asking for it."

Alex Emery