A new dedicated support hub for unpaid carers is set to launch in central Dorchester in summer 2025—thanks to the voices of over 160 local carers who shared their experiences in a recent survey.

The Dorchester Carer’s Nook is being developed by the Mid Dorset Primary Care Network (PCN) in partnership with Dorset Council, Age UK, Carer Support Dorset, and the Dorchester Connect Hub. The aim? To create a welcoming, flexible space for unpaid carers to access support, build connections, and take a well-deserved break.

To ensure the new service meets real needs, a survey was carried out from 24 March to 11 April 2025. The results have been both eye-opening and inspiring.

What We Heard from Carers

• Long-Term Commitment: 50% of carers have been providing support for over five years, often while managing their own health—78% live with at least one long-term condition.

• A Need for Multi-Faceted Support: 64% of respondents selected multiple types of support. Top priorities included:

  • Practical advice and information (34%)

  • Emotional and peer support (21%)

  • Access to community services (19%)

  • Safe activities for the person they care for (21%)

• Barriers to Access: Carers cited scheduling conflicts, worries about leaving their loved ones, and their own health as key challenges. 42% listed personal circumstances—like full-time work and limited free time—as barriers to attending.

• What They Want: Carers expressed strong interest in wellbeing services, financial and benefits advice, virtual and evening options, and better access to clinical services. Social and peer support, including condition-specific groups, were also high on the wish list.

• Attendance Uncertainty: While 28% said they would attend hub sessions, 59% were unsure—highlighting the unpredictable and demanding nature of caring responsibilities.

What’s Next

These findings are already shaping plans for the Carer’s Nook and the hub will be designed around what carers say they need most.

Most importantly, it will be a place where carers are recognised—not just as caregivers, but as individuals who also deserve care, community, and a break.

Read the Full Report

You can explore the full survey findings and insights here:
Click to read the full report

We are hugely grateful to every carer who shared their views. Your voices are making this support hub a reality—thank you.

In today’s digital world, technology plays a significant role in how we access healthcare services. From booking appointments online to ordering prescriptions and using health apps, digital tools offer convenience and efficiency. However, not everyone feels comfortable using these services, and we want to change that.

Why Understanding Digital Skills Matters

We want to ensure that every patient, regardless of their familiarity with technology, can access healthcare services with ease. By learning more about your comfort level with digital tools, we can tailor our support and resources to meet your needs. Whether you are confident with technology, need a little help, or do not use it at all, we want to hear from you!

How This Benefits You

By improving digital accessibility, we can help make healthcare services more efficient and user-friendly. Here’s how:

• Faster Appointment Booking – Skip the phone queues and book your GP appointments online with ease.

• Easy Access to Test Results – View your test results securely without waiting for a call or letter.

• More Control Over Your Health – Manage prescriptions, track symptoms, and access medical advice at your convenience.

What If You Struggle with Technology?

No worries! We’re here to support you. Understanding your digital skills allows us to provide training and resources to help you stay connected to your healthcare team. Whether it’s one-on-one guidance, workshops, or printed materials, we’re committed to ensuring that everyone can access the care they need—digitally or otherwise.

Have Your Say!

We want to hear from you. Speak to your GP practice or fill in our quick form to let us know how we can help improve your digital healthcare experience. Your feedback is invaluable in shaping the future of accessible and inclusive healthcare services for all.

Digital Literacy - Mid Dorset Primary Care Network

Together, we can make healthcare more accessible, efficient, and user-friendly for everyone!