Wiltshire's young carers will be able to get extra advice, support and services after the awarding of grants from the Carers Trust.

Carers in Wiltshire received £42,998 from the trust, which made the awards after netting a £6 million windfall through its charity of the year partnership with The Co-operative Group.

The Carers Trust has used the Co-op money to award the grants through its About Time programme.

Staff, customers and members of the Co-op raised the cash to support the "nation's hidden army of young adult carers".

A young carer is someone aged 14 to 25 who provides unpaid care for a family member or friend who cannot cope without their support.

Thea Stein, chief executive of Carers Trust, said: "I have been overwhelmed by the success of our partnership with The Co-operative Group and, with the support and enthusiasm of its staff, members and customers.

"We dared to dream of a transformative year for Carers Trust and for the young people in communities who, at a crucial time in their lives, desperately need our help, support and services - it is with thanks to The Co-operative that our dream is becoming reality."

At least 50 About Time grants will be made over the next two years.

In addition, some of the money raised by The Co-operative is also being used to launch a new website for young adult carers.

Matter.carers.org will allow users to connect with each other to share experiences and access advice, support and information.

Nick Folland, external affairs director at The Co-operative Group, said: "Young adult carers are often described as the glue holding families together, they take on incredible levels of practical and emotional caring responsibilities, often at the expense of their own education and aspirations.

"The Co-operative trades at the heart of the community and I am extremely proud that the enthusiasm of The Co-operative's staff, members and customers is not only helping to raise awareness of this hidden issue but is also making a real difference to thousands of young lives."

Other recipients included the Carers Centre Bath and North East Somerset, which was awarded £42,710, while the Crossroads Care North Somerset secured a grant of £42,695.