UNION bosses are calling for a fairer deal for nearly 17,000 people in South Tyneside who look after elderly or infirm relatives.

The GMB wants employers to sign up to a charter that makes it easier for unpaid carers to combine their job with their family roles.

Research by the union shows there are 16,740 people in the borough who have responsibilities as a carer – 11.3 per cent of the population.

Of these, 56 per cent have to devote between one and 20 hours a week to their caring duties, and 44 per cent more than 20 hours.