Almost one in six Scottish carers - 17% - have never taken a holiday break away from the person they look after.

And 8% have not enjoyed a break for two years, according to a report by Saga, the financial and leisure services group for the over 50s.

The Saga/Populus poll probed reasons for not taking a break. Under a quarter of Scottish carers - 22% - said they couldn't afford it, while 13% said they couldn't find alternative care.

Bearing such responsibilities takes a toll on carers' health: 56% reported suffering stress; 41% had experienced anxiety; 2% had suffered physical injury; and 27% admitted they had neglected their own health.

Findings from the poll lie behind a new charity established by Saga.

The Saga Respite for Carers Trust will cover the cost of well-earned holidays for people who care selflessly for their loved ones, and will ensure continuity of care.

Holidays will include river and ocean cruises, UK and European breaks and more exotic locations further afield. Saga will also provide spending money and travel insurance where required.

Carers can nominate themselves or they can be nominated by another individual, who may be a member of the medical or caring professions. Nominations close at the end of August for the first group of recipients.

Paul Green, head of communication for Saga, said: "The results of our poll are deeply worrying. Carers are suffering major cuts in income and increasing burdens that take a toll on health.

"Saga has campaigned vigorously for carers to have a right to take a break. The trust will play a part in demonstrating the benefits of re-charging carers' batteries."