If It is important to look after yourself as well as the person you are caring for.
If you need someone to talk to, you can call Carer Support Dorset who have a dedicated team of Carer Advisers who can discuss your caring role and the effect it has on you. Find out more and how to get in touch at How we can help | Carer Support Dorset.
These are available across Dorset. You may find that talking to others who have been through similar experiences useful, it's also a great way of meeting new people. Carer Support Dorset will be able to let you know which groups are available in your area.
As a carer, keeping life organised can be challenging. Our Carer's Journal has been produced in partnership with carers to provide comprehensive information and advice. The journal is specially designed to help you keep track of information and appointments for both you and the person you care for.
Use the Help and Kindness Community Directory to find all sorts of of local information. This can include services or activities you might find useful in your caring role.
LiveWell Dorset is a free service for adults who would like support to change their lifestyle. They have information to help you to manage your weight, increase your physical activity and reduce your alcohol intake.
Read our information about:
- meeting people and making friends
- being more active with exercises or activities for wellbeing
- managing your money
- nutritional care and malnutrition
See the videos Our Dorset have created about carer support. They cover topics such as:
- looking after yourself - self help for carers
- stress management for carers
Talk to your GP if you are concerned about your own health or the person you are caring for. Make sure you tell your GP you are a carer as this can open up all sorts of benefits for you. You can also ask them for a social prescriber appointment as they will be able to give you ideas about looking after your health and wellbeing.
Our TEC lounges have a range of technology that can be helpful to you or your loved one in your everyday life.
Since April 2024, unpaid carers have been entitled to one week of unpaid Carer’s Leave per year to support those most in need. It is available to eligible employees from the first day of their employment. It can be taken flexibly to suit your caring responsibilities. Find out more at GOV.UK.
Carers UK have collated a factsheet about Your rights in work which could help you if you are trying to balance work and caring.
South West Advocacy Network (SWAN Advocacy)
Swan Advocacy can work with you to help you understand your rights and choices under the Care Act 2014. They can help you make decisions about care and support and make sure your voice heard so that others know your views, needs and wishes.
Experts by Experience
We have 'Experts by Experience' groups. Express your interest in joining these carers' voice groups by emailing: talktoadultsteam@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.
Find out more about how you can have your voice heard and help to improve adult social care.