Our Carer Friendly staff work hard to find local offers for Carers by getting out into the community and listening directly to Carers at groups and events. In Dorset and Wiltshire that is done by our Project Assistant Karen. Maybe you have met her?  

Every conversation we have with local businesses raises awareness of Carers’ lives, and often we discover that business owners or staff are unpaid Carers themselves. 

Businesses can support in many ways: pledging a discount, explaining their service offer, displaying posters and leaflets so Carers know what’s available, or even offering space for Carer groups to meet. 

You also have a QR code on the front of the Carer ID card. By scanning it, on a camera phone businesses can quickly complete a form to join the Carer Friendly scheme. 

We really need your help to sign up more businesses in your local area. Think about your hairdresser, local café, plumber, taxi driver, tell them about the scheme and encourage them to contact us or simply scan the QR code on your card. Together, we can create more Carer Friendly Communities. 

Dorset Carers: Your Latest Offers & Resources 

Kathrens Rare Knitwear- 10% discount-Discounts – Forward Carers 

Westbourne Bookshop- 10% discount-Discounts – Forward Carers 

Just Jigsaws-Wimborne Jigsaw Club- A social group: an enjoyment of 
compiling jigsaw puzzles, A social group: an enjoyment of compiling jigsaws. A chat, drink and a piece of cake! Every Wednesday 230pm-430pm Wimborne Library. £2.00 donation. Jigsaw loans available-Discounts – Forward Carers 

Al-Anon Family Groups- A not-for-profit organisation who is there for anyone whose life is or has been affected by someone else’s drinking-Discounts – Forward Carers 

Featured offer/service– Dbam Cakes and Treats

10% discount on cakes and treats – click to view the offer

“Many businesses begin with a plan. For me, DBAM began with a need for good mental health. 

The seed was planted in August 2020, when I was juggling a full-time job as a university lecturer, pursuing a PhD, and becoming a first-time parent. The pressure led to chronic stress and anxiety, and although I tried exercise, long walks, singing, and crafting, nothing truly brought peace, often I felt more exhausted. I longed for something to calm my mind and lift my spirit. During the COVID-19 lockdown, for my daughter’s first birthday, I baked a simple vanilla cake. To my surprise, the process filled me with calm and joy. My husband’s smile and words, “This is really good, you could sell this” stayed with me. When neighbours and friends echoed his encouragement, something shifted. 

What started as a therapeutic escape from academic life soon revealed a hidden passion. Baking became more than a hobby; it became a calling. Today, I consider it an honour to create cakes that are part of people’s most cherished celebrations. For me, this is not just about baking treats; it’s about storytelling, spreading joy, and helping to make life’s special moments unforgettable. 

My vision goes beyond delicious cakes. I am committed to building a sustainable home-based bakery, one that minimises waste, protects our planet, and contributes to positive social causes. 

Thank you, Dr. Maureen”