Dorset carers support platform creates 16,000 self-help plans
Bridgit provides unpaid carers with access to much needed support
More than 16,000 self-help plans have been created in Dorset, using an online carers support platform.
Dorset Council's Bridgit service aims to help with issues like getting carers allowance, providing necessary care, benefits, pain management and respite.
Nearly 700 carers have also signed up to receive email support, which is more bespoke to individual needs, since the platform launched in May 2023.
Carer Support Dorset say they've provided advice and support to over 11,000 people over the phone or in person too.
There are an estimated 35,505 unpaid carers across the Dorset Council area, with 6.8% providing up to 50 hours unpaid care a week according to latest census figures.
Councillor Steve Robinson, Cabinet Portfolio lead for Adult Social Care, said it was encouraging to see an increasing number of unpaid carers using the online tools that are available to support them when they need them, but accepted more needed to be done:
“Unpaid carers are often the lifeblood of the community and it’s great to see so many finding Bridgit Care such a useful one stop shop for information and support. Carer Support Dorset continues to be available at the end of a phone for those who want to talk to someone.
“We want to reach out to every unpaid carer to ensure they know the support that is out there either through Bridgit and Carer Support Dorset, but also through our advocacy service South West Advocacy Network (SWAN) and Forward Carers who run our Dorset Carers Card. Counselling is also available from The Leonardo Trust who are working in partnership with Dorset Council."