Unpaid carers in Dorset are being invited to take part in a week of special events starting Monday 9 June, as part of Carers Week 2025.
The programme is designed to recognise the work of unpaid carers, highlight local support available and encourage more people to seek help if they are looking after someone and not receiving support.
This year’s national theme is “Caring about Equality” and events across the county will focus on a different theme each day, including health, financial wellbeing, employment, younger and older carers, and mental health.
There are an estimated 35,505 unpaid carers living in the Dorset Council area. Figures from the most recent census show 6.8% of them provide up to 50 hours of unpaid care every week.
Councillor Steve Robinson, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said Dorset Council is proud to be part of the 2025 Carers Week campaign. He said: “Carers should be truly valued, recognised and supported. If you are helping someone who can’t manage without you, then you are a carer.”
Events include workshops, drop-in sessions, music activities, cream teas and walks. They are being organised by a number of community groups and partner organisations.
Anyone who supports a friend or family member due to illness, disability, frailty, mental health or substance misuse can be classed as a carer, regardless of age or employment status.
Details of local events can be found at ourdorset.org.uk by clicking on the ‘Carers Week 2025’ section.