Our Dorset

Wimborne Dementia Friendly Community
2025-10-15 08:00 - 17:00 (Europe/London)
Organisation: Wimborne Dementia Friendly Community
Activity: Dementia Friends awareness session
Description: WDFC are holding a Dementia Friends Awareness Session, delivered by Sue Warr from Prama. Open to all and is one in a 3 part series this autumn/winter.
Location: Lesley Shand Funeral Service, Orchard Room, 184 Wareham Road, Corfe Mullen, BH21 3LL
To secure your place contact Trish at trishhitchins@aol.com

Mid Dorset Primary Care Network drop in
2025-10-15 08:00 - 17:00
Organisation: Mid Dorset Primary Care Network
Description: Drop in chat for information, advice and general carer information.
Second Wednesday of every month
10am-12pm
Location: Dorchester Day Centre
Drop in, no need to book.

Dorchester Carers Nook
2025-11-12 10:00 - 12:00 | Dorchester Day Centre, Acland Rd, Dorchester DT1 1SH
Organisation: Mid Dorset Primary Care Network
If you care for someone, you’re welcome to drop in and take a break. The Dorchester Carers Nook runs on the second Wednesday of every month, 10:00–12:00 at Dorchester Connect Day Centre, Acland Rd, Dorchester, DT1 1SH.
You can relax in the Carer Café, meet other carers, and share experiences in a friendly space. Local organisations are on hand with clear information and practical advice. You’ll find support from social prescribers, PCN staff, and long-term condition coordinators.
While you’re here, your cared-for person can join supervised activities at the day centre. These sessions need to be booked in advance and places are limited to 10 each month. Activities are free. If you can’t make it after booking, let the centre know so someone else can take the place.
The café and information stands are drop-in, no booking needed.To book a place for activities, call Dorchester Connect Day Centre on 01305 269073.
This event is run in partnership with Age UK, Dorset Council, Carers Support Dorset, and Dorchester Day Centre.
More information, visit: Dorchester Carers Nook – Mid Dorset Primary Care Network

Online Zoom event: Carers Card (Forward Carers)
2025-11-18 18:30 - 19:15
The Carers Card and how it supports your rights
18th November 6.30pm – 7.15pm
Activity: Join us for an online event to learn about the Carer Friendly ID Card and how it has been designed to help your life as a carer.
Description:
Join us for an online zoom event to learn about the Carer Friendly ID Card and how it has been designed to Support Your Rights As a unpaid carer.
Discover how to get and use the card, why it’s important in relationship to your Rights, the exclusive benefits it offers and how we raise awareness of carers in the community.
Not sure if you’re a carer? No problem! Come join us and find out.
At the end of the session, you will meet a Carer Friendly business to learn why they have joined the programme and we’ll answer any questions you may have so you can make the most of this valuable resource.
Don’t miss out on knowing your rights as a carer, in order to use your rights, and unlock the benefits and support you deserve.
Book your space today Carers ID Card-and how it supports your rights

Wimborne Carers Information Event: Carers Rights (Prama Life)
2025-11-19 09:00 - 12:30
Organisation: Prama Life
Activity: Information event
Description: Pramalife are hosting a Carers Rights Day Event where anyone looking after anyone else can attend and speak with over 30 different organisations, all waiting to help and support carers. There will be free refreshments available as well as an activities room, so your loved one can relax and enjoy a cuppa whilst you look around the event.
Location: The Allendale Centre, Wimborne, BH21 1AS
Drop in event, no need to book.
To find our more contact carol.davies@prama.uk
07736 133445

Bridgit Care’s Visit to Dorset for Carers Rights Day: 19th November
2025-11-19 09:00 - 12:30
Bridgit Care’s Visit to Dorset for Carers Rights Day
Bridgit Care is excited to be visiting Dorset this November as part of Carers Rights Day 2025, meeting local carers and community partners to raise awareness of carers’ rights and showcase how digital tools can make support more accessible for everyone.
We will be at:

Wimborne Event: Prama Life – Wednesday 19th November, 9:00 am – 12:30 pm Wimborne Carers Information Event: Carers Rights (Prama Life) – Our Dorset

Bridgit Care provides an AI-powered online platform that helps unpaid carers access personalised advice, complete self-assessments, and receive step-by-step guidance — available anytime, anywhere. The service supports carers with wellbeing, finances, employment, and local resources, helping them feel more confident and connected.
At the Dorset Carers Rights Day events, the Bridgit Care team will:

Demonstrate how the platform works and how to access local support.
Share examples of carers already benefitting from digital guidance.
Connect with organisations to strengthen Dorset’s carer support network.

🎥 Watch how Bridgit Care works: https://vimeo.com/848307429
🌐 Learn more or access Dorset support: bridgit.care/support/dorset

Veterans Brunch Club (Care UK)
2025-11-19 10:30 - 12:00
Organisation: Care UK
Description: In-house pub and chat with fellow local veterans and reminisce over brunch. Every third Wednesday of the month from 10:30am – 12pm
Every third Wednesday of the month 10:30-12 noon
Location: The Potteries, 187 York Road, Broadstone, Poole BH18 8ES
To book call 01202 124885 or email caroline.hearne@careuk.com
Veterans brunch club – free event at The Potteries | Care UK

Carers Health and Wellbeing Fair in Weymouth and Portland
2025-11-20 09:30 - 11:30
Carers Health and Wellbeing Fair, Weymouth and Portland
When: Thursday 20 November 2025, 9:30 to 11:30 am
Where: Wellworthy Social Club, Weymouth, DT4 9BY
About the event
Weymouth and Portland Primary Care Network is hosting a friendly drop-in fair for anyone in a caring role. Come for information, advice, and practical support. Most stalls support carers across Dorset, so all Dorset carers are welcome. However, some information will focus on local support for Weymouth and Portland carers.
You can also get a free blood pressure check, flu vaccination, and health check advice during the event!
Who is hosting
A Primary Care Network, PCN, is a group of local GP practices that work together so patients get joined-up care.
Weymouth and Portland PCN includes:

The Bridges
Cross Road Surgery
Royal Manor Health Centre
Weymouth Bay Medical Practice
Wyke Regis and Lanehouse Surgery

What to expect, subject to change

Carer support and connection from MyTime Young Carers and Forward Carers
Health and wellbeing information from LiveWell Dorset, and Help & Care, Dementia Coordinators and Social Prescribers
Energy, finance, and utility advice from Citizens Advice, Energy Team, Ridgewater Energy, and Wessex Water
Digital help from Dorset Council’s Tech Team
Information from Dorset Recovery Education Centre, First Point, Dorset’s Vaccination Team, Access Wellbeing Coordinators, and the Department for Work and Pensions

Meet local teams, for Weymouth and Portland carers

PCN Frailty Team
PCN Care Coordinators
Weymouth Carer Caseworker, Adult Social Care
Portland Carers Group, peer support

Drop in any time between 9:30 and 11:30 am.
Questions, contact Lauren Magill, Care Coordinator Team Lead, at lauren.magill@dorsetgp.nhs.uk.

Bridgit Care’s Visit to Dorset for Carers Rights Day: 20th November
2025-11-20 09:30 - 11:30
Bridgit Care’s Visit to Dorset for Carers Rights Day
Bridgit Care is excited to be visiting Dorset this November as part of Carers Rights Day 2025, meeting local carers and community partners to raise awareness of carers’ rights and showcase how digital tools can make support more accessible for everyone.
We will be at:

Weymouth Event: Thursday 20th November, 9:30 – 11:30 am Carers Health and Wellbeing Fair in Weymouth and Portland – Our Dorset

Bridgit Care provides an AI-powered online platform that helps unpaid carers access personalised advice, complete self-assessments, and receive step-by-step guidance — available anytime, anywhere. The service supports carers with wellbeing, finances, employment, and local resources, helping them feel more confident and connected.
At the Dorset Carers Rights Day events, the Bridgit Care team will:

Demonstrate how the platform works and how to access local support.
Share examples of carers already benefitting from digital guidance.
Connect with organisations to strengthen Dorset’s carer support network.

🎥 Watch how Bridgit Care works: https://vimeo.com/848307429
🌐 Learn more or access Dorset support: bridgit.care/support/dorset

Carers Information & Advice stand Yeovil Hospital
2025-11-20 09:30 - 14:30
Organisation: Dorset Council – Adult Carers Team
The Adult Carers Team are holding a Carers Information & Advice stand to provide information to support those in hospital, or pre & post hospital discharge. Carer support available from Dorset Council
when: 20th November. 9.30am – 2.30pm.
where: Yeovil District Hospital main foyer, YDH, Higher Kingston, Yeovil, Somerset.BA21 4AT
No need to book. Just turn up. Contact adultcarersteam@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk for more information.

Loneliness Together Chitter Chatter Club: Moordown
2025-11-20 14:30 - 15:30
Organisation: Chitter Chatter Club
Description: Chitter Chatter Clubs connect with people and bring hope of recovery from loneliness through mass advertising, flyers, free empowering monthly newsletter and in person. Chat and have new company, make new friends, and enjoy time out.
Location: Silver Lounge, Moordown
Occurs every Thursday weekly!
More information visit: https://www.helpandkindness.co.uk/search/dorset/chitter

Loneliness Together Chitter Chatter Club: Highcliffe
2025-11-20 14:30 - 15:30
Organisation: Chitter Chatter Club
Description: Chitter Chatter Clubs connect with people and bring hope of recovery from loneliness through mass advertising, flyers, free empowering monthly newsletter and in person.
Location: The Oaks, Lymington Road, Highcliffe
Occurs every Thursday weekly!
More information visit: https://www.helpandkindness.co.uk/search/dorset/chitter

Dementia Friends Awareness Session
2025-11-20 14:30 - 16:00
Organisation: Wimborne Dementia Friendly Community
WDFC are holding a Dementia Friends Awareness Session, delivered by Sue Warr from Prama. Open to all and is one in a 3 part series this Autumn/Winter.
When: 20th November 2025
Where: Lesley Shand Funeral Service, Orchard Room, 184 Wareham Road, Corfe Mullen, BH21 3LL
To secure your place contact Trish at trishhitchins@aol.com

Online Zoom event: Your Rights at Work (Forward Carers)
2025-11-20 19:00 - 19:45
Support for Working Carers: Your Rights at Work
20th November 7pm – 45 min plus time for questions
Activity: Support for Working Carers: Your Rights at Work. Forward Carers Invite you to an informative online zoom session exploring carers leave and your rights in the workplace.
Description: Join us this Carers Rights Day to find out how knowing your rights can make life as a working carer that little bit easier.
Understand your rights: Learn how the Carer’s Leave Act and other workplace laws can help you balance caring with work.
Start the conversation: Get tips on how to talk to your employer about your entitlements and support.
Know your rights, use your rights: This year’s Carers Rights Day theme reminds us that support is there and you deserve to use it.
Did you know? 1 in 7 workers are carers.
Don’t miss this chance to get informed and connect with others.
Register now to secure your place.

Bournemouth Carers Information Event (BCP Carers Support)
2025-11-21 10:00 - 14:00
Organisation: BCP Carers Support
Activity: Carers Rights Day information event
Description: We are hosting a Carers Rights Day information event with local providers and organisations who support carers. Refreshments will be provided. Carers will have the opportunity to network and meet other carers in the local area. Providers will have stalls showcasing their work, along with a carers choir.
Location: Ensbury Park Community Centre, Ensbury Avenue, Bournemouth, BH10 4HG

Carers and cared for people afternoon event in Christchurch (Poole North PCN)
2025-11-21 13:00 - 15:00
Poole North Primary Care Network (PCN) is hosting an afternoon event for its registered carers and their cared for people for Carers Rights Day 2025.
The Poole North PCN includes: The Harvey Practice, The Hadleigh Practice, Canford Heath Group Practice, and Birchwood Medical Centre.
When:
Friday 21st November 2025 1pm to 3pm
Where:
Christ Church28 Northmead DriveCreekmoor BH17 7XZ
This is a free event.
We hope you can join us for tea and coffee.
No need to book.

Carers Afternoon tea in Ferndown (Crane Valley PCN)
2025-11-24 14:00 - 15:30
Organisation: Crane Valley PCN
Activity: Afternoon tea and chat
Description: afternoon of tea and chat. Meet and greet with local social prescribing team who will offer support and advice.
Location: Parley Place Care Home, Ferndown, BH22 8SL
RSVP: call or text Rachel on 07462 521670 or Kate on 07462 050616 email: cranevalleysocialprescribers@dorsetgp.nhs.uk

'We Can Talk About Cancer' Training
2025-11-26 13:30 - 14:15
Organisations: Community Action Network and Cancer Research UK
Description: ‘We CAN talk about cancer’. 20-30 minute presentation, Q&A, resources such as leaflets, contact details for nurses, screening info that will be sent out after the sessions, certificates of attendance. Training sessions for unpaid carers on risks, screening and signs of cancer.
Location: Online
More information on the course: We Can Talk About Cancer | Community Action Network
Book online via Community Action Network – CAN Training – We CAN talk about cancer, online training, 26th November, 1.30pm – 2.15pm

Carers Peer Support Group, Poole
2026-06-01 10:30 - 12:30 | Leonardo Carer Support, Anne van Brussel House, Unit 1, Albany Business Park, Cabot Lane, Poole, Dorset, BH17 7BX
BCP Carer Support & Leonardo Friends Carers Peer Support Group – a regular monthly meeting open to carers registered with BCP Carer Support (attendance must be booked through BCP Carer Support). At this meeting, we will be joined by Live Well Dorset and Forward Carers, who will be talking about experiences of being a carer in our local community. The session will finish with a cream tea!
Contact: carersupport@bcpcouncil.gov.uk

West Dorset Carers Group
2026-06-01 15:30 - 17:00 | The Chapel in the Garden, 49 East St, Bridport, England, DT6 3JX
West Dorset Carers Group – join us at the Chapel in the Garden (please use the Rax Lane entrance). We are a small, friendly group and know there are carers out there supporting someone with mental health challenges who may benefit from meeting others in a similar situation, so we would warmly welcome any new members. Join us in June, where a member of the friendly Dorset Carer Service, delivered by Help & Care, will also be joining us. Free to attend and no booking necessary.
Contact: carers@helpandcare.org.uk

Gillingham Carer Peer Support Group
2026-06-03 10:30 - 12:30
Join us for a relaxed, friendly chat over a cuppa. Meet other carers, share experiences, and connect with people who understand. There’s real value in coming together – sharing knowledge, learning from each other’s experiences, and building a supportive network. Take some time out for yourself and focus on your own wellbeing in a welcoming, informal space.
For our June meeting, we’ll be celebrating Carers Week! Come along for some extra sweet treats. Free to attend – no booking required. Everyone is welcome.
Contact: carers@helpandcare.org.uk

Blandford Carers Support Cafe
2026-06-04 10:00 - 12:00 | Blandford Rugby Football Club-53 East Street, Blandford forum, DT11 7DX

Blandford's Hidden Gardens
2026-06-07 11:00 - 17:00 | DT11 7AW
Blandford’s Hidden Gardens – now in its 18th year, this popular event invites visitors to explore approximately 20 hidden gardens across Blandford Forum, from Georgian to modern, large gardens to smaller courtyard spaces, including some not previously opened to the public. Blandford has been described as a “Little Bath in bricks” and offers a fascinating setting to explore. Refreshments and plant sales will be available, with all proceeds supporting local charities and groups. Tickets are £7 for adults, with accompanied under-18s attending free. There are 30 FREE tickets available for carers – these must be collected from the Blandford Town Museum on a first come, first served basis (or carers can contact the museum directly on 01258 450388). Come along, explore the gardens, and spot team members from Forward Carers or the Dorset Carer Service, who will be hosting an information stand at the event.
Contact: carers@helpandcare.org.uk
Blandford’s Hidden Gardens | the National UK Open Gardens Directory
https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/

Avon Beach Carers Wellbeing Walk
2026-06-08 10:00 - 12:00 | Avon Beach, located in Mudeford near Christchurch, Dorset (BH23 4AN)
If you are caring for someone and would like the chance to take some time for yourself, join us for a gentle wellbeing walk along the beautiful Avon Beach coastline during Carers Week.
This relaxed and friendly walk offers an opportunity to enjoy fresh sea air, connect with other carers, and take a mindful break in a calm and welcoming setting. The walk will follow a flat promenade route at an easy pace and is designed to be informal and supportive.
This event is for carers only, with spaces limited to 10 people to help keep the group small and welcoming. Feel free to bring your own drink or pick something up from the nearby café before the walk begins.
Please note that dogs are not permitted on this walk. Unfortunately, the route is not suitable for wheelchair users and attendees will need to be able to walk independently.
For more information please email: carersupport@bcpcouncil.gov.uk or phone: 01202 128 787
Meet at Beach Hut 19, next to the beach sauna.
Parking is available at Avon Beach Car Park.
Postcode: BH23 4AN
Pay by phone, RingGo ID 1879.

Information and Advice Drop In Sherborne
2026-06-08 10:00 - 14:00
Carers are invited this Carers Week, to drop in and chat with our Carers Caseworkers, who provide information, advice, and practical support to unpaid carers, helping them access services, understand their options, and find the right support for their caring role. The drop-in takes place at the The Walled Garden Restaurant in Sherborne.

Poole Gather Space Adult and Young Carer Drop-In Event
2026-06-08 10:00 - 18:00 | Gather Space Dolphin Centre Poole BH15 1SZ
If you help support someone, whether that is a parent, partner, brother, sister, friend, or someone important to you, come along to this friendly Carers Week drop-in event in Poole for both adult and young carers.
This relaxed and welcoming space is an opportunity to talk to people who understand, find help that works for you, and discover what support and services are available locally for carers.
Drop in anytime during the day and speak with local organisations offering information, guidance, and support for unpaid carers.
Contact: carersupport@bcpcouncil.gov.uk

Carers Information Drop-In at Gillingham Library
2026-06-08 11:00 - 13:00 | Gillingham Library, Chantry Fields, SP8 4UA
Can We Be Of Help?
If you are caring for someone and would like to know more about the support available to you locally, drop into this friendly and welcoming information session at Gillingham Library.
You can explore a wide range of services and resources designed to support both you and the person you care for, including audiobooks, large print books, wellbeing resources, self-help guides, support for specific health conditions, help with getting online and using technology, local clubs and activities, newspapers, magazines, and more.
There will also be an opportunity for you and the person you care for to try the interactive table, a fun activity designed to encourage thinking, movement, coordination, and social connection.
Your local Dorset Council Carers Case Worker will be there to offer information, advice, a warm welcome, and free refreshments.
Drop in anytime during the session, no booking required. The library is wheelchair accessible and has accessible toilets and disabled parking available.
For more info contact:
Lynne White, Carers Case Worker
01747 859120
Library Customer Services: 01305 221000
Ask for the branch library team.

Dorchester Carers Information Stand at Dorset County Hospital
2026-06-08 11:00 - 15:00 | Damers Restaurant, Dorset County Hospital, Williams Avenue, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 2JY
If you are caring for someone and would like to find out more about support available for unpaid carers, visit the pop-up information stand at Damers Restaurant in Dorset County Hospital during Carers Week.
Sarah-Jo Boyle, Weymouth and Portland PCN Carers Lead, and Kay Linehan-Cross, Dorset Council Carers Case Worker, will be available to help raise awareness of unpaid carers and share information about local services, support, and advice available across the area.
Whether you are currently caring for a family member, friend, or neighbour, or would simply like to know more about local support, you are warmly welcome to stop by for a chat. No need to book, just turn up on the day.

Wareham Welfare Benefits Talk for Carers
2026-06-08 13:00 - 15:00 | Wareham Hospital, Streche Road, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 4QQ
If you are caring for someone and would like to better understand the welfare benefits and financial support that may be available to you or the person you care for, join Dorset Council for this informative talk for carers.
Delivered by Dorset Council staff, this session will provide information and guidance around welfare benefits and offer carers the opportunity to ask questions in a supportive and welcoming environment.
The event is open to all carers in the local area. The event is taking place at Wareham Hospital. Ask for the ‘carers group room’ when you arrive.
Chris Norman Area Practice Manager (Carers) and Lynne Fossey Welfare Benefits Officer, Dorset Council. Contact for more information: christine.norman@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

Wareham Carers Information and Advice Drop-In
2026-06-09 10:00 - 12:00 | The Bear 14 South Street Wareham Dorset BH20 4LT
Join us at The Bear for a Carers Information and Advice Drop-in, taking place alongside the monthly Wareham Carer Peer Support Group. A range of local organisations will be hosting information stands, offering the opportunity to find out more about support and services available for unpaid carers across Dorset. Come along for a friendly chat, enjoy tea, coffee and cake, and pick up a carers goodie bag kindly donated by Leonardo Carer Support. We look forward to welcoming carers for an informal and supportive afternoon together.
For more information, contact:
Dorset Carer Service, delivered by Help & Care: carers@helpandcare.org.uk
Sandford Surgery, Katie Ball: katie.ball@dorsetgp.nhs.uk
