THREE Towns residents are being urged to take advantage of a ground-breaking new care website.

CareNA allows people  to find out about the health and social care services and community activities which best suit their needs.

The initiative provides residents with an easy to use and comprehensive guide to the services available throughout North Ayrshire.

All of information on the website is shaped by service users and care providers and is easily accessed at the click of a mouse - allowing residents to visit the site using their PCs, laptops, tablets and smartphones.

Daily updates are also available on CareNA’s Facebook page.

Marie McWaters, a carer from the Three Towns, is full of praise for CareNA and the benefits it brings to people.

She said: “It’s a great resource, especially for carers.

"It’s really a one stop information shop with all the information you need, from personalisation, self-directed support and help in a crisis, to community groups and events in our area.  “CareNA is already making life that wee bit easier for our local carers, it saves time and makes it easier to find information and services available in our local area.

"I’m so happy carers themselves had the chance to help shape this vital community resource.” Others spoke of their admiration for CareNA’s innovation and creativity.

Iona Colvin, Director of the North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “CareNA provides individuals with clear and current information about who is providing what services in their area, as well as what sort of leisure activities are taking place.

“I want people to make the most of the choices available to them through Self-Directed Support. CareNA gives people access to information that will give them choice and control over the support they receive.” To browse the services on offer, or to register your services, go to www.carena.org.uk or visit the Care and Support North Ayrshire Facebook page.

Alternatively, if you would like to discuss the services that CareNA can offer with a Community Connector or have any ideas on how to improve CareNA email info@carena.org.uk or call 01294 317768.