Joseph Edge, a PhD student at Birmingham City University, is recruiting participants from across the UK to fill out an online survey about how LGBTQIA+, autistic people understand romantic relationships. The survey would take no longer than 30 minutes to complete and is part of a PhD study on autistic romance.

If you wish to take part you must meet the following criteria:

Aged 18+
Identify as LGBTQIA+
Have an autism diagnosis. No relationship experience is required to take part – just your opinions!

The survey is open response, meaning that you can write as much (or as little) as you like for each question. The questions ask about your understanding of romantic and intimate relationships and you should be willing to discuss this, alongside your autistic and LGBTQIA+ identities. Examples of question topics include communication, identity and what a relationship means to you. There is an information sheet to read once you click the link, alongside providing some basic information about yourself (age, gender identity etc). The survey responses are anonymous.

Any questions? Reach out to Joseph Edge, PhD researcher:
joseph.edge@mail.bcu.ac.uk

This month’s newsletter focusses on how GP practices in Dorset have been becoming Carer Friendly, whilst also taking a whistle stop tour of all the latest national and local discounts available to you as a Carer. It also previews the upcoming Carer ID Card discovery session.

We hope you enjoy!

Featured Offer

Dorset Nursing Supplies – 10% discount on body worn PPE. for Carers.

Dorset Nursing Supplies is a family run, well-respected medical supply company within the NHS and the care industry. We have been a provider of medical supplies, medical equipment and incontinence supplies since 1985. We also offer servicing/inspections/calibrations, repairs and hiring of medical equipment. 

We supply a vast range of medical products to Nursing/Care Homes, various NHS establishments, Surgeries, Nursing Agencies and the General Public, as well as Hospitals, Universities and Schools. For example, supplying care equipment and consumables to Nursing Homes, couch rolls and surgical instruments to Surgeries and incontinence aids and mobility equipment to the public. 

We can help you with an extensive range of medical supplies from incontinence products, health monitoring equipment, bathroom, toilet and mobility aids, hospital beds, PPE/infection control products, janitorial supplies and first aid kits. If you can’t find what you’re looking for in the online store, remember this is only a selection of what we sell. We also have access to thousands of products from the major manufacturers in the medical supply industry such as Omron, Bunzl, Abena, Performance Health, Sunflower Medical, Labcold and more. 

Celebrating Carer Friendly GP Practices in Dorset  

Every two months, Forward Carers meets with NHS Carers Leads from Participation Teams to share what we’re hearing from Carers, reflect on the support being provided by surgeries to keep improving how Carers are identified and supported across GP practices and Primary Care Networks (PCNs).

You can read all about the GPs and PCNs who have committed to becoming Carer Friendly, and what this means for you, by clicking on the link below!

Upcoming Online Carers ID Card Discovery Sessions

The next online Carers Card Discovery Sessions are taking place on the 24th February 2026 at 1.30pm and 6.30pm!

Feel free to join us and discover how to get and use the card, why it’s important, the exclusive benefits and discounts it offers and how we raise awareness of Carers in the community.

The presentation is for approximately 45 minutes with 15 minutes questions and answers at the end.

Follow the links below to confirm your place!

Every two months, Forward Carers meets with NHS Carers Leads from Participation Teams to share what we’re hearing from Carers, reflect on the support being provided by surgeries to keep improving how Carers are identified and supported across GP practices and Primary Care Networks (PCNs). 

These meetings are an important space to: 

• Raise the issues that matter most to Carers right now 

• Share what’s working well in local areas 

• Celebrate Carer Friendly GP practices making a real difference 

• Agree practical actions that help Carers feel recognised, supported and included 

And most importantly, they help us make sure Carers’ voices are heard in health settings. 

Celebrating Carer Friendly GPs and PCNs

As part of this work, the GP Carers Engagement Facilitator Team has highlighted several GP practices and PCNs for the amazing work they do to support unpaid Carers. A huge congratulations to everyone recognised, your commitment really matters. 

Below are a few standout examples, in their own words.

⭐ Littledown Surgery 

(Bournemouth East Collaborative Network) 

Littledown Surgery was recognised for the compassionate and support offered to bereaved Carers: 

“Exemplary service that is offered to bereaved Carers, including calling the Carer when you are notified that a cared-for person has died and signposting them to bereavement support.” 

Why this matters: 
When caring ends, it can feel like the world changes overnight. A kind call and clear signposting can help bereaved Carers feel seen, supported, and less alone. 

⭐ Banks and Bearwood Medical Practice 

Banks and Bearwood Medical Practice evidenced how they worked hard to find answers for Carers facing challenges. 

“We were very impressed by the Carers Lead’s passion to find the best possible for a Carer, who was facing a challenge shared by many; needing respite care so that they can take a vital break from their caring responsibilities.” 

Why this matters: 
When Carers face challenges, they sometimes don’t know who to turn to. Carers Leads often have a wealth of knowledge they can share, providing valuable support when most needed and preventing a crisis situation. 

⭐ Barcellos Family Practice 

Barcellos Family Practice shared how all departments work closely together with regular staff catch ups. All members of staff could highlight any admin improvements that could be made. 

“We did a session with all the staff on showing which boxes needed ticking so that all unpaid Carers were registered correctly. Communication is key” 

Why this matters: 
It is important for a whole team to know how to record the correct information. This leads to the best possible outcomes and support for Carers, ensuring essential information is not missed. 

⭐ Milton Abbas Surgery 

Milton Abbas Surgery sends out all newly registered Carers a welcome pack with a personal introduction to the surgery. Linking all Carers with their Carers Lead who as Social Prescribers can link Carers with groups and activities to support their wellbeing. 

“Milton Abbas Surgery continues to demonstrate excellent practice”. 

Why this matters: 
It is vital for Carers to know where to go for support and to be reassured that their own wellbeing is vital for them to be able to continue in their caring role. 

A special mention to other Carer Friendly practices and PCNs

We also want to recognise the fantastic work happening across many other areas, including: 

Orchard House PCN, The Blackmore Vale Partnership, Poole North PCN, Jurassic Coast PCN, Mid-Dorset PCN, Gillingham Medical Practice, The Adam Practice, Central Bournemouth PCN, Two Harbours Healthcare Ltd – Weymouth and Portland PCN, Westbourne Medical Centre. 

Thank you for the work you’re doing to support Carers; it really does make a difference. 

Your voice matters – tell us what would help YOU  

These NHS Participation meetings help us raise Carers’ experiences directly with the people shaping services but we need your input to make sure we’re focusing on what matters most. 

We’d love to hear from you: 

✅ Does your GP practice know you are a Carer? 
✅ Have you had a good experience you’d like to share? 

Happy New Year and welcome to the January edition of our Carer Friendly Newsletter. As we step into a new year, we want to say a heartfelt thank you to all unpaid Carers for everything you do every day.   

In this Newsletter, we’re shining a light on support for Carers in military families, reminding Carers to book onto one of our Carers ID Card Discovery Sessions, sharing this month’s local and national discounts.

We hope this newsletter helps you feel informed, valued, and supported as the year begins. As always, you’re not alone and we’re here to support you every step of the way! 

Featured Offer: Helen’s Hypnotherapy Online and at Helen’s practice-50% Discount.

Caring for someone you love can be rewarding, but it can also take an emotional toll. That’s why Helen at Helen’s Hypnotherapy is offering Dorset Carers an exclusive 50% discount on hypnotherapy sessions to support your wellbeing. Whether you’re struggling with stress, anxiety, low mood, exhaustion, overwhelm or simply need space to breathe, Solution Focused Hypnotherapy provides a gentle, effective way to restore calm and build emotional resilience. Sessions are available online or in person in Ferndown, and are designed to fit around the unpredictable nature of caring. 

“As someone who has had a caring role myself, I understand firsthand how deeply caring responsibilities can impact our lives. This lived experience guides my approach and allows me to offer compassionate, non-judgemental support tailored to the unique challenges Carers face. Hypnotherapy can also help with unwanted habits, phobias, confidence, sleep and other issues that can become harder to manage when you’re supporting someone else. You deserve support too, and I’m here to help you take that step”. Helen Wilks DFSH, HPD, AfSFH (Reg), NCH (Reg). 

Supporting Military Personnel, Veterans and Their Families in Dorset

Military life can be very rewarding, but it can also bring unique challenges, especially for families. Frequent moves, periods of separation, physical or mental health needs, and the transition into civilian life can place extra pressure on both service personnel and their family.  

Across Dorset, there is a strong commitment to ensuring that military families, veterans and unpaid Carers are recognised, supported. 

Online Carers Card Discovery Session

Online Carers Card Discovery Sessions are taking place on the 24^th February 2026 at 1.30pm and 6.30pm. Join us and discover how to get and use the card, why it’s important, the exclusive benefits and discounts it offers and how we raise awareness of Carers in the community. 

See the link below to book through Calendly. 

Military life can be very rewarding, but it can also bring unique challenges, especially for families. Frequent moves, periods of separation, physical or mental health needs, and the transition into civilian life can place extra pressure on both service personnel and their family.  

Across Dorset, there is a strong commitment to ensuring that military families, veterans and unpaid Carers are recognised, supported. 

Carers within the Military Community – Why Identification Matters 

Many people in military families supporting a loved one don’t always see themselves as Carers but they are. 

A Carer is anyone who provides unpaid support to a family member or friend who could not manage without help due to illness, disability, mental health needs, addiction or injury. Within the Armed Forces community, this might include: 

• Partners supporting veterans with physical injuries or PTSD 

• Parents caring for injured or unwell service leavers 

• Young people helping to support a parent or sibling 

Being recognised as a Carer is important. Carer identification helps people access: 

• Financial and wellbeing support 

• Discounts and concessions 

• Information, advice and community services 

• Recognition for the vital role they play 

• Early identification can make a real difference, helping Carers stay well and continue supporting their families without reaching crisis point. 

Help and care if the lead Carers service in Dorset and BCP Carer Support in the BCP area. It is important to register with them.  In addition, there are several other important organisations there to help.  

The Armed Forces Covenant in Dorset 

The Armed Forces Covenant Programme in Dorset brings together local councils, health services, charities and community organisations to make sure members of the Armed Forces community are treated fairly and have access to the support they need. 

Support available includes: 

• Mental health and emotional wellbeing support 
• Employment and skills assistance 
• Help with housing, finances and benefits 
• Community engagement and peer support 

You can explore what’s available through the Dorset Armed Forces Covenant directory.

If you’d like to speak to someone directly, you can contact the Dorset Armed Forces Covenant Programme: Email: dorsetafc@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk 
Address: Armed Forces Wellbeing Team, County Hall, Colliton Park, Dorchester 
Dorset, DT1 1XJ 

Help for Heroes – Practical and Welfare Support 

Help for Heroes provides one-to-one support for veterans, serving personnel, and their families, including those who worked alongside the UK military or are relatives of someone who served. 

Their Welfare Service can help if: 

• You’re struggling with money or cost-of-living pressures 

• You need support applying for benefits 

• Your home is difficult to manage due to disability 

• You’re having problems with the War Pension Scheme 

Veteran Hubs, Sheds and Breakfast Clubs 

Social connection is just as important as practical support. Dorset has a range of welcoming spaces for veterans and their families: 

Veteran Hubs 

Safe, friendly places offering advice, company and refreshments for serving and ex-service personnel and their families. 

Sheds 

Part of the Men’s Sheds movement, these groups offer veterans of all ages the chance to learn practical skills, share experiences and build friendships. 

Breakfast Clubs 

Informal meet-ups for veterans who enjoy catching up regularly. You usually just pay for your breakfast, with no pressure or formal support required. 

For a full overview of what’s available locally, visit the Dorset Forces Charity Network.

Bereavement Support in Dorset 

Sadly, some military families experience bereavement, whether during or after service. Support is available, and no one has to face grief alone. 

Dorset offers a wide range of bereavement support services, including emotional support, counselling and practical guidance. You can find up-to-date information through Help and Kindness Directory ,  BCP Bereavement Support and Leonardo Carer Support 

Whether you are serving, a veteran, a family member who is an unpaid Carer, help is available across Dorset and BCP. Recognition, early support and strong community connections can make a real difference to wellbeing, resilience and family life. 

If you think you might be a Carer, or if you’re supporting someone in the Armed Forces community, reaching out can be the first step towards feeling more supported and less alone. 

Forward Carers is delighted to present Ridgewater Energy with our Carer Friendly Employer Commitment Mark, recognising the organisation’s commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive workplace for employees who also have unpaid caring responsibilities. 

This award is given to employers who can clearly demonstrate progress against our five Carer Friendly Standards. These standards help ensure that staff who are Carers feel recognised, understood, and supported, including having the flexibility to take additional time off when needed to meet their caring responsibilities. 

Peter Bywater, Managing Director at Ridgewater Energy, said: 
“We are really proud to receive this award, in recognition of our company’s culture, under which, we care about our employees and give them the support and flexibility, to fulfil any caring responsibilities they may have now, and in the future. We recognise that there is always more we can do, but in achieving this recognition, we have made a strong commitment to carry on providing and strengthening this support.” 

One Ridgewater employee, who is an unpaid Carer for their parents, shared the impact this support has had: 
“I really value and appreciate knowing that the support is there, when I need it. Because, I know there is the flexibility for me to have extra time off, flexibility in attending appointments and knowing the company I work for, fully support my needs and go beyond what is typically expected from legislation, I can focus on both my wellness and my parents care, knowing they have my back.” 

Across the UK, 1 in 7 workers are unpaid Carers. Many juggle demanding roles at home and work and are often the most skilled and experienced staff. Without the right support in work, Carers Uk estimate 600 people in UK leave work every day due to caring.  

Ridgewater Energy has taken proactive steps to address this. Their team completed Carer Awareness Training, increasing understanding of unpaid caring roles and equipping advisors and assessors with the knowledge to better support clients and advocate for Carers. The organisation also actively supports the wider caring community through donations, attending events, delivering talks, and ensuring Carers’ needs are considered throughout their projects. 

Rachel Close, Programme Manager for Community and Business Relationships at Forward Carers, said: 
“We are incredibly impressed by the dedication and care Ridgewater Energy has shown in putting the wellbeing of their staff at the heart of their workplace culture. Their commitment goes beyond supporting employees who are Carers – by completing our Carer Awareness training, they have ensured that all staff are equipped to recognise and understand the challenges Carers face, both within their workforce and across the wider community. It’s inspiring to see a company using this knowledge to guide others towards support, creating a ripple effect of care and understanding that truly embodies what it means to be a Carer Friendly Employer.” 

Forward Carers is proud to recognise Ridgewater Energy’s leadership and commitment. Their actions set a strong example for employers across Dorset and show what is possible when workplaces truly value and empower Carers. 

Forward Carers is proud to recognise Birmingham Community Healthcare (BCHC) as a recipient of our Carer Friendly Employer Commitment Mark. This prestigious award acknowledges workplaces that actively support staff who carry unpaid caring responsibilities, through recognition, policies, and a supportive culture.

BCHC has taken a leading role in this commitment by establishing a dedicated Carers Staff Network and embedding wellbeing support, flexible practices and Carer workplace Champions. 

Richard Kirby, CEO of BCHC, said: 

“We’ve been on a journey of seeking to take the support for people in BCHC who are Carers more seriously for quite a while now and I am really grateful to the Carers’ network for helping us do that. Their role as critical friends, raising issues, giving us feedback, helping us think through sensible responses, is really important. It’s been eye-opening just how many in our staff have caring responsibilities outside of work. Our job as an employer has to be to make it as easy as possible for people juggling work and care.”  

Simon Fenton, CEO of Forward Carers, added during the Carer’s Rights Day event and award presentation: 

“Your staff network, your enhanced access to wellbeing support, your clear signposting, and your commitment to creating local care champions all demonstrate a Trust that genuinely understands its workforce and is prepared to invest in their wellbeing. In a sector where caring responsibilities are especially common, BCHC shows how a truly supportive, flexible and compassionate employer can operate.”  

Rachel Close, Programme Manager at Forward Carers, commented: 

“As a working Carer myself, it is always a joy to meet passionate, like-minded staff networks. Joint Network Chairs Akunna Madufor and Abdulsalam Olatunde have continued to juggle work, caring and leading this new staff network with such energy and commitment. I’m looking forward to continuing our training and mentoring support as the network grows.” 

Forward Carers applauds BCHC’s for taking tangible steps towards embedding carer-friendly practice across the organisation. Their achievement highlights the significant difference employers can make when they acknowledge and support unpaid Carers among their workforce and the wealth of knowledge and experience these staff members provide.  

We look forward to continuing our partnership with BCHC, delivering training, mentoring and guidance as they continue to embed their commitment to Carers.

About BCHC

Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust – known as BCHC – deliver more than 100 different NHS services for people of all ages. They provide core community health services for the 1.1 million people of Birmingham and also a range of specialist rehabilitation and dental services for the 6.5 million people across the wider West Midlands region.  

To read more about BCHC and their Commitment Mark Award, click below.  

Featured offer/service – Cindy Perry

Discounts for Carers on Indian Head massage and workshops.

Cindy Perry, ITEC Qualified Alternative Practitioner and Naturopath. 

“I have been working with carers from BCP Carers Support for over 20 years and have experienced a caring role within my own family. I therefore recognise the challenging role that carers have and enjoy providing them with these methods of relaxation and stress relief. 

In my experience carers enjoy Indian Head, Neck and Shoulders Massage. This is a seated therapy and I work through clothing, so no oils need to be used and clients don’t need to undress. 

Using various gentle massage techniques on common tension areas of the upper body, a state of deep relaxation is achieved. 

I also run beginners relaxation and wellness classes either on a one-to-one basis or in small groups. Classes may include, for example, breathing techniques, gentle self-massage and meditation resulting in clients feeling de stressed and calmer. These classes are run in a non-competitive environment with clients joining in when they want to and to their own capabilities. One to one classes are customised to that particular clients’ needs. “

Call 01202249882 to chat about treatments. If the phone line doesn’t connect it means I am with a client, so please try again later. 

Why every unpaid Carer in Dorset should have a Carer Friendly ID Card

If you’re caring for a family member, friend or loved one — whether you’re working, studying, or juggling home life — the recently published guide “How to Get and Use Your Free Carer ID Card” is well worth a read.

Because every caring role deserves recognition

Too many unpaid Carers feel invisible. The new Carer ID Card gives you a simple, official way to show you’re providing unpaid care — whether that’s at work, school, hospital, or out and about.

Practical benefits to make daily life smoother

With the Card in hand (or on your phone), you can:

• Prove your status as a Carer to employers, health and social-care professionals, or pharmacists.
• Carry ICE contact information in case of an emergency — helpful for peace of mind.
• Access local discounts, leisure entry, and online savings via partnered businesses — making caring responsibilities a little easier on the wallet.

How to get your free card

If you live in Dorset and are registered with either BCP Carers Support or Help & Care, this card is free — just follow the simple online application process. Cards are available as a physical copy and also as a digital version for your phone.

Book an Online Carers Card Discovery Session!

Online Carers Card Discovery Sessions are taking place on the 24^th February 2026 at 1.30pm and 6.30pm. Join us and discover how to get and use the card, why it’s important, the exclusive benefits and discounts it offers and how we raise awareness of Carers in the community. 

See the link belows to book through Calendly. 

Select a Date & Time – Calendly  1.30pm – 2:30pm 

Select a Date & Time – Calendly  6.30pm – 7:30pm

Forward Carers is proud to celebrate Action for Children’s achievement of the Carer Friendly Employer Commitment Mark, a milestone that reflects an ongoing commitment to gradual, sustainable change. We will continue to support Action for Children as they embed Carer-friendly practices and implement the changes they wish to see across their organisation.

This proactive approach ensures that positive Carer awareness, access to support within Action for Children and the wider community, and strong advocacy for Carers are embedded throughout the organisation’s culture and practice.

Rachel Close, Programme Manager at Forward Carers, said:

“It’s been a real pleasure working with Action for Children to support their journey towards becoming a Carer Friendly Employer. By developing Carer Champions across the country and launching a dedicated staff network, they’ve demonstrated a genuine commitment to creating a workplace where every Carer feels valued and understood.”

Brigitte Gater, Managing Director of Children’s Services at Action for Children, added:

“Action for Children is incredibly proud to achieve the Carer Friendly Employer Commitment mark, confirming our dedication towards creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all staff.

“We have been working closely with Forward Carers and colleagues within Action for Children who are Carers themselves, to ensure we are putting systems in place that properly support staff with personal caring responsibilities.

“We have set up a staff network for Carers and are developing trained Carer Champions, who will ensure that Action for Children continues to provide effective support to staff and improve wellbeing, including offering flexible working arrangements and paid dependency leave.

“Our aim is to empower staff to balance work and care and receive the support they need to feel happier, healthier and understood – and we are thrilled that these efforts have been recognised.”

About Action for Children
Action for Children protects and supports vulnerable children and young people by providing practical and emotional care and support, ensuring their voices are heard, and campaigning to bring lasting improvements to their lives. With 342 services in local communities across the UK, in schools and online, in 2024/2025 the charity supported 551,400 children, young people, and families.

Your Carer Friendly ID Card helps you be recognised quickly, whether you’re collecting a prescription, visiting hospital, speaking to school or work, or accessing local support. 

Many Carers and Young Carers tell us how much they appreciate having a digital version they can access instantly on their phone, especially on busy days. That’s why we encourage you to store your card safely on your smartphone and show it whenever you need it. 

We’re also working on a new, improved Carer ID Card based on your feedback. While that’s in development, thank you for sticking with us and making the most of the digital version. 

Here’s a Step-by-step guide 

Option 1: Add Your Carer ID Card to Your Mobile Wallet (Android)

If you have an Android phone, you can store your card in Google Wallet. This keeps it safely in one place, just like bank cards or travel passes. 

How to add your card: 

1. Open the Google Wallet app. 

2. Tap “+ Add to Wallet”, then choose “Everything else”. 

3. Take a clear photo of both sides of your Carer ID Card 
   – tap the button when prompted to capture the second side. 

4. Select “ID Card” as the type. 

5. Add any extra details if the app asks (for example, your region). 

6. Tap Save or Add. 

Once added, you can open Google Wallet any time and tap ‘View pass images’ to show both sides of your Carer ID Card when asked. 

Option 2: Save Your Carer ID Card in Your Phone’s Photo Gallery (All Phones) 

This option works on all smartphones, including iPhones and Android devices. 

How to do it: 

1. Take a photo of both sides of your Carer ID Card. 

2. Save the images in your phone’s photo gallery. 

3. Move them into your Favourites or Starred folder so they’re easy to find quickly. 

This simple method is great for Young Carers or anyone who wants a no-fuss digital version. 

Why Using a Digital Card Helps 

Keeping a digital version of your Carer ID Card means: 

• You can show it instantly in appointments, pharmacies, workplaces, shops, or schools. 

• It reduces the risk of losing the physical card. 

• It helps people recognise your caring role when you need support. 

• It’s an easy backup while we work on your enhanced card. 

Several Carers also tell us that carrying a digital card gives them added confidence, especially when explaining their role to professionals who may not always understand the pressures they’re under.