Unpaid carers across Dorset are being recognised and encouraged to seek support during next month’s Carers Week, as local organisations work together to build communities where carers feel understood, valued and supported.
Carers Week (8–14 June 2026) is a national campaign that raises awareness of unpaid caring and helps people recognise when they may be carers themselves. Anyone who regularly supports a family member, friend or neighbour with tasks such as shopping, attending appointments, personal care or offering emotional support may be an unpaid carer.
This year’s theme, “Building Carer Friendly Communities,” focuses on creating more inclusive places and services that recognise carers’ needs from easy access to information and advice to giving carers time to look after their own wellbeing.
Across Dorset, partners including Help & Care, Forward Carers, South West Advocacy Network (SWAN), Leonardo Carer Support and Dorset Council will be running events, sharing real stories and reaching out to local communities, particularly those who may not yet realise support is available.
A key focus for Dorset Council this year is the launch of Bridgit Generation 2, an improved online support platform for unpaid carers. Bridgit is a free digital service available 24/7, offering personalised advice, local services, events and practical tools in one place. Since launching in 2023, it has supported around 25,000 people.
The new version includes enhanced features such as an AI Carer Coach, providing personalised guidance by text or voice. Carers can explore challenges, build a tailored self-help plan, download a Carer Friendly ID card, find local events and access support pathways, including a Carer Pre-Assessment with Help & Care Dorset Carer Service and, if needed, a full Carer Assessment.
Alongside digital support, Help & Care continues to provide direct support for carers of all ages, including wellbeing support through Health & Wellbeing Coaching, the HOPE Programme and social prescribing. Carers can speak with trained staff who listen and help build confidence and coping strategies.
Additional support includes access to short breaks, counselling and activities such as a beach hut in Swanage through Leonardo Carer Support. SWAN offers free, independent advocacy to help carers understand their rights and make informed decisions.
Carers can also apply for a Carer Friendly ID card through Forward Carers, which helps identify them in their role and provides access to discounts from participating businesses.
Year-round support is also available through local groups, including dementia cafés, lunch groups, exercise sessions, bereavement and condition-specific support.
More information is available via Help & Care, the Help & Kindness website, Dorset Council libraries and GP social prescribing teams.
Cllr Steve Robinson, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said:
“Carers are at the heart of our communities, but many people don’t see themselves as carers or realise help is available.
“This Carers Week is about reaching those hidden carers and making support easier to find. By working with partners like Help & Care, and investing in practical online tools such as Bridgit, we’re helping carers feel supported, connected and valued because when carers are supported, our communities are stronger.”
During Carers Week, carers are encouraged to explore available support and take time to look after their own wellbeing.
For more information about events visit: https://ourdorset.org.uk/carers-week-2026/
