Dorset Council, in partnership with Our Dorset is proud to celebrate Carers Rights Day on Thursday 20 November 2025.
Leading up to and after this national day, there are a programme of events designed to inform, support, and empower unpaid carers.
This year’s theme, “Know your rights, use your rights,” shines a spotlight on the vital role carers play and the legal rights that help them balance work, care, and wellbeing.
Councillor Steve Robinson, Dorset Council Adult Social Care portfolio lead said:
“All our unpaid carers deserve recognition for what they do day in, day out. This year we want to ensure these valued individuals know their rights and look after themselves, so they can continue caring for others. By joining an event, carers will gain expert advice, guidance on their rights, details of local services, and opportunities to connect with others.”
Carers have important workplace rights, including:
- Up to five days of unpaid leave per year to care for someone with long-term needs.
- The right to request flexible working arrangements from day one of employment.
Carers can also access health-related support by:
- Registering with their GP as a carer.
- Requesting a free flu jab, especially if they receive Carer’s Allowance or care for someone older or disabled.
To make support accessible anytime, Dorset Council offers Bridgit, a free online self-help platform available 24/7. Bridgit provides personalised advice, local resources, and tools such as:
- Dorset Carer Friendly ID Card.
- Carer Assessment in your own words.
- Links to local organisations offering support.
Find out more and book your place here: Carers Rights Day 2025: Know Your Rights in Dorset – Our Dorset














