We use cookies to help provide you with the best possible online experience.
By using this site, you agree that we may store and access cookies on your device. Cookie policy.
Cookie settings.
Functional Cookies
Functional Cookies are enabled by default at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings and ensure site works and delivers best experience.
3rd Party Cookies
This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.
Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.
Social Prescribing Resource Sheet:
Carers Support
Carers Support
This resource sheet includes a selection of services, tools, and organisations that others have found helpful.
If you require further support in accessing these, or other services, please contact the Social Prescribing Team on 01308 428943 or contact us via our online form.
Social Prescribing is available at your GP Surgery
If you live in Bridport, Beaminster, Lyme Regis or the wider West Dorset area, you can speak directly with our Social Prescribers and Care Coordinators - no referral needed.
- Support with finances
- Getting Active
- Hobbies and Interests
- Connecting to Community
- Supporting wellbeing
- Help with Long Term Conditions
Registering as a Carer
You can register with the GP by informing them at any time.
Carers Support Dorset
Carers Support Dorset is an organisation to help carers to access services, information, education and training, respite and breaks from their caring role. They hold regular Carer support meetings in the community, as well as helplines to support and advise you on your caring role and a “Money Matters” team to support with the financial side.
You can register yourself to Carers Support Dorset or a professional may do it on your behalf. Once registered you will receive information on Carers Support Dorset and how they can support you. You can also opt in to receive an initial phone call to discuss your situation and you can also choose to receive a “carers card” that entitles you to discounts at some retailers.
Phone: 0800 368 8349
Adult Social Care Assessments
As an unpaid Carer you are entitled to a Carers Assessment. This is a discussion about your caring role and how it is balanced with your own health and wellbeing needs. It is to look at your own goals and improving areas that you feel require change. It will establish your eligibility for financial support as well.
You can request a Carers Assessment through Carers Support Dorset, by contacting the Adult Access team direct at Dorset Council or using the online tool “Bridgit”.
Adult Access Team (Dorset Council)
Request your unpaid Carer’s Assessment to review your caring role, wellbeing needs, and eligibility for financial support.
Phone: 01305 221016
Bridgit online tool
Online portal for requesting and managing your Carer’s Assessment.
Access via: Visit the Bridgit website
Benefits & Grants
You may qualify for Carers allowance for more information: Visit the Carer's Allowance website
The Carers trust has information on grants available to carers and their cared for persons. For more information: Visit the Carers Trust grants page
Organisations such as Carers support Dorset, Age UK or Citizens Advice Bureau can help with making applications.
Carer’s Allowance
Financial support you may qualify for if you care for someone at least 35 hours a week.
Website: Visit the Carer's Allowance website
Attendance Allowance (for the person being cared for)
Tax-free benefit for people of State Pension age who need help with personal care or supervision due to illness or disability.
Rates (Apr 2025): £73.90/week (lower), £110.40/week (higher).
Not means-tested – savings & income don’t affect it. May increase other benefits (e.g. Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction) and can help carers qualify for Carer’s Allowance.
Apply: Call 0800 731 0122 or visit gov.uk/attendance-allowance.
Carers Trust Grants
Information on grants available to carers and the people they care for.
Website: Visit the Carers Trust grants page
Learning Opportunities
Many unpaid carers have had no previous experience of being in a caring role. There are many areas of the role that can benefit from extra learning to ensure that you and your loved one feel confident.
Open University – Caring for Adults
Free online course to build confidence in your caring role.
Link: Visit the Open University Caring for Adults course page
Open University – Physical Activity & Wellbeing
Learn how to look after your own health and wellbeing as a carer.
Link: Visit the Open University Physical Activity & Wellbeing course page
Alzheimer's Society - CRISP (Carer Information & Support Programme)
Helps carers of people with dementia access information, support meetings and respite.
Contact: 07719 074485
Email: Email Alzheimer's Society - CRISP (Carer Information & Support Programme)
Support for Carers
The Leonardo Trust
The Leonardo Trust is another carer support resource you may be able to get assistance from. Their services include grants to help fund respite and home adaptions, courses and information sessions and short breaks. They can also offer carers counselling.
Phone: 01202 698325
Website: Visit the Leonardo Trust website
Live Well Dorset
Maintaining your physical health is also important. Live Well Dorset offer coaching and advice on moving more, managing your weight, support to stop smoking and drink less alcohol.
Phone: 0800 840 1628
Website: Visit the Live Well Dorset website
Mental Health Support
Caring for a loved one can be a difficult time. Counselling and talking therapy can be a good first step in managing feelings and expectations. Below are a few services that individuals can self-refer to. If further assistance is needed in respect to Mental health, do contact the GP or Social Prescribing team direct.
Steps2Wellbeing
Free NHS Talking Therapies for anxiety, depression and self-help in Dorset.
Website: Visit the Steps2Wellbeing website
Prout Bridge Counselling
Free confidential face-to-face counselling in Beaminster for adults.
Phone: 07503 091932
The Altering Group
Low-cost remote counselling sessions on a sliding scale, initial assessment free.
Website: Visit The Altering Group website
Other Important Contacts
Further Information
While we hope you may find something here that supports you, please note that these resources are not all officially endorsed by the NHS. We endeavour to ensure that all listings are accurate and up to date, but please be aware that we cannot guarantee this at all times.
If you are a local service, organisation or group that would like to be included in this guide, please contact us via secure online form or call the PCN Admin Team on 01308 801810 and tell us about your support offering.
Last updated: August 2025.