This new space, created with carers, for carers, offers a warm welcome, practical support, and a chance to connect with others who understand the challenges and rewards of caring. Whether you're looking for advice, a listening ear, or simply a break and a cuppa, we’re here to help you feel less alone. With trusted partners and trained staff on hand, you can access local services, enjoy meaningful connections, and even arrange safe activities for your loved one—giving you time to recharge.

The service is a joint effort from:

• Mid Dorset Primary Care Network (PCN)
• Age UK
• Dorset Council
• Dorchester Day Centre
• Carers Support Dorset

Together, we have developed a safe, welcoming space where carers can unwind, connect, and access the help they need.

The Dorchester Carers Nook takes place on the second wednesday of every month and each month has a specific focus, the sessions include:

• Carer Café – Meet other carers, share experiences, and build supportive connections.
• Activities for the Cared-For Person – Supervised, engaging sessions to give carers a little breathing room- this requires booking ahead of time.
• Info & Advice Stalls – Access to health services, local charities, and community organisations.
• On-Hand Support – From PCN teams, Social Prescribers, and Long-Term Condition Coordinators.

It’s designed to be a one-stop space for care, connection, and community — for both carers and the people they support.

Date: Second Wednesday of every month
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Location: Dorchester Connect Day Centre

If you want to visit for information and advice, or the carer cafe there is no need to book – just come along anytime between 10am and 12pm.

If you would like to book your cared for into the activity then pre-booking is required to secure a space, see below for more information. 

Each month features a different focus, designed to offer targeted information and support.
Take a look at the calendar of events below to see which sessions may be most relevant to you.

We offer free care activities for the person you care for during the Carers Nook sessions. Spaces are limited to 10 per month and are available on a first come, first served basis.

To keep things fair, if you’ve accessed the service frequently, we may offer the space to someone else if demand is high.

To book:

• Complete the booking form to request a space.

• Dorchester Connect Day Centre will then contact you to complete a form about the person you care for, helping us understand their needs.

• Activities run for 2 hours and vary each month.

If you're no longer able to attend, please cancel your place as soon as possible so someone on the waiting list can take part.

If you're not comfortable filling out online forms, no problem — please call (not open yet)

Bookings for August's session will be avilable soon

If you have recently visted the Dorchester Carers Nook, thank you, the space was created with carers, for carers — and your thoughts are essential in helping us make it as supportive and welcoming as possible.

Whether you joined us for a chat, accessed advice, or simply took a moment to relax, we want to hear about your experience. Your feedback helps us improve what we offer and shape future sessions around what matters most to you.

Please take a few minutes to complete the short survey below.

Dorchester Carers Nook Feedback Survey