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. 

Being recognised as an unpaid Carer can make daily life easier, but many Carers in Dorset tell us this is still a challenge. In our survey, only 28.5% of Carers agreed they feel recognised and respected. Carers attending our focus group said they wanted to be recognised as an expert, while many said they wanted clearer proof of their caring role.

That’s why our Carer ID Card is so important. It’s a free, simple way to show you’re a Carer – whether at work, school, healthcare appointments, or out and about.

What is the Carer ID Card?
The Carer Friendly ID Card is available as both a physical card and a digital version on your mobile phone. It displays your photo, just like a driving licence, so you can easily prove your caring status.

Benefits of Having a Carer ID Card

• Verification of Your Caring Role
  Show that you are a Carer in workplaces, colleges, or healthcare settings – whether you are in paid work, a Young Adult Carer, or supporting medical discussions.
• Security
  Carrying a card means you don’t need to bring sensitive paperwork with you.
• Confidentiality
  Quickly prove your caring status without having to explain your situation in front of the person you care for.
• Peace of Mind
  Your card includes In Case of Emergency (ICE) contact details, giving reassurance that the person that you provide care for will be supported if something happens to you.
• Exclusive Discounts & Offers
  You’ll get access to our Wellbeing Directory, discounts across Dorset (see below), and hundreds of online savings through Discounts for Carers.

Where Can I Use My Carer ID Card?

Our Carer ID Card can be used in a variety of situations to effectively explain your caring responsibilities and the impact that this role has on your life.  Your card can be used to:

• Explain lateness at work, as you may have to wait for paid carers to arrive
• Show employers why you need flexibility or, explain the need to take urgent caring phone calls
• Collect prescriptions from pharmacies
• Validate your role and provide valuable input to medical staff and social workers
• Access events, attractions, and discounts across Dorset and beyond.

During the pandemic, Carers used their ID card to legitimately travel outside of their area and access priority shopping hours to support the person they care for as a key worker.

Local Discounts and Free Entry

As of November 2025, Carer ID Cardholders can access a wide range of discounts and free entry across Dorset, including:

• Free entry if you are with the person that you care for: Flip out Poole, Dorchester Arts Parkinson’s Class, Brownsea Island National Trust, Verwood Hub Cinema and Events, Athelhampton House and Gardens. (Some of these attractions require documentation for the person that you care for so check ahead).
• Free entry to Sports and Leisure Centres, if you are with the person that you care for: Ferndown Leisure Centre, Blandford Leisure Centre, Weymouth swimming Pool and Fitness Centre, 1610 Dorchester Sports Centre. Registration sometimes needed.
• Flip out Poole, Dorchester Arts Parkinson’s Class, Brownsea Island National Trust, Verwood Hub Cinema and Events, Athelhampton House and Gardens. (Some of these attractions require documentation for the person that you care for so check ahead).
• Discounts: BH Live- Your Carers Card is accepted for the BH Live Access Scheme. 12-month membership-payable monthly or Pay as You Go Classes. (All at reduced prices). Natural Skin by Lynne (Complimentary Pamper Sessions), Caroline Anne Psychotherapy (25% discount), Wildway Bushcraft (20%), Horrocks & Webb (10%), The Old Piggery (10% discount on plants).

See the full and regularly updated list in our Wellbeing Directory, just type in Dorset with a 20-mile radius in the search filter.

Carers’ Voices

Here’s what some Carers told us about their card:

• “My Carer’s Card allowed me to see my Dad in hospital outside visiting times.”
• “I use it for free entry to attractions – it saves carrying lots of paperwork.”
• “It was great to receive a digital card for immediate use whilst waiting for the physical card to arrive.”
• “I was able to persuade hospital staff to let me stay overnight on a Z bed with my Mom because I could prove I was her Carer.”
• “A Blue Light cardholder, got a discount in a shop so I asked if I could too with my carers card and I got it!” 

• “Ordered a card for my daughter that cares for me and her Grandmother with parkinsons. So useful for her just to have the identification especially if out and about for supporting at events etc.”
• “I find Discount for Carers a great support package. I use them for travelling and to book hotels, I also use them for discounts on meals out.”
• “Found the card very useful for gaining access to hospital and Care Home during Covid restrictions.”

How to Apply

The Carer Friendly ID Card is provided by Forward Carers and is available for FREE to unpaid Carers who newly register with either BCP Carers Support (BCP Council residents) or Help & Care, (for Dorset Council residents from 24^th November 2025). The card is also available for existing registered Carers who need to renew an expired card. The card is fully funded by Dorset Council and BCP Council to make life better for unpaid Carers.

This is the official Carers ID Card for Dorset. The Carer Friendly ID Card is available to you if you are an unpaid Carer:

• AND you have recently registered with BCP Carers Support (BCP Council residents), or Help & Care (Dorset Council residents from 24^th November 2025).
• OR, if you have an existing ID Card that has expired, or  you have received a letter or email from your Carer service confirming you are eligible for a new Carer Friendly ID Card

If you have any questions, please contact BCP Carers Support or Help & Care (from 24^th November 2025) for more information.

If you live in Bournemouth, Christchurch or Poole, register with BCP Carers Support here or call 01202 128787. If you are caring for someone living in Dorset Council area, register with Help & Care here or call 0300 111 3303 from 24^th November 2025.

Help Us Grow Carer Friendly Communities

• Tried your card somewhere new? Let us know at info@forwardcarers.org.uk so we can approach them to officially join and offer a discount.
• Know a local business keen to help? Ask them to sign up to our free Carer Friendly scheme.
• Want to do more? Spread the word and encourage more businesses and services to provide offers.

Your Carer ID Card is more than just proof – it’s recognition, support, and peace of mind.

National Carers: Savings Across the UK

Dorset Carers: Your Latest Offers & Resources

Why not have a look at where you could buy your Christmas gifts this year using your Carers ID Card. Lots of lovely things to find with a discount...

In Dorset visit: 

 DJ Brooking in Parkstone for a 10% discount on books in stock or ordered.  

Westbourne bookshop also offers a 10% discount. 

Kathrens Rare Knitwear in Lyme Regis offers a 10% discount on her beautiful knit wear items. 

Why not order some flowers for delivery or find a special Christmas gift in Pamplemousse in Shaftesbury. 10% discount.  

Thinking of your pets at Christmas, Paws and Claws pet shop in Shaftesbury offers a 5% discount. 

Featured offer– The Black Belt Academy

Carers Rights Day 2025 – Know Your Rights, Use Your Rights Support 

Carers Rights Day is fast approaching on Thursday 20^th November – a national awareness day dedicated to ensuring unpaid Carers understand their rights, know where to get help, and feel supported in their caring role.  

Across Dorset and Wiltshire, partners are coming together to host a variety of online and in-person events offering advice, information, and wellbeing activities for Carers. 

A full programme of events will be available soon on the Our Dorset website, our own Forward Carers online calendar in Wiltshire, and the Carers Together Wiltshire events – so keep an eye out and get involved on what is on near you!

Carers Rights Day Online Events  

Remember to book onto these, we would love to see you there.  

The Carers Card and How it Supports your Rights, 18th November 2025 6.30pm-7.15pm.  

Link to Book: Carers ID Card Discovery Session – Carers Rights  

Support For Working Carers-Rights at Work 20th November 7pm-7.45pm.  

Link to Book: Support For Working Carers 

The theme this year is “Know your rights, use your rights”. This day is a call to recognise and celebrate the vital contribution of unpaid Carers and to ensure that you – the Carers we support – are empowered with the knowledge, tools and support you deserve.

Why this day matters

There are an estimated 5.8 million unpaid Carers in the UK – people providing care to a partner, family member, friend or neighbour without being paid. Many Carers do not recognise themselves as Carers, and may miss out on the rights and support available. Knowing your rights is not just about legal entitlement, it’s about safeguarding your wellbeing, protecting your role as a Carer, and enabling the person you care for to receive the best support.

What rights should Carers know about?

Here are some of the key rights and entitlements you should be aware of:

• The right to a Carer’s Assessment: if your caring role is affecting your life, you have the right to ask your local authority for an assessment to identify support for you.
• The right to be identified as a Carer: for example, on GP records, and to access immunisations or health checks.
• Employment-related rights: you have the right to request flexible working from day one of employment, and under the new framework you can change arrangements more than once a year.
• The right to challenge when your rights are not being met: whether that is discrimination in the workplace, being left out of decisions about the person you care for, or transitions between children’s and adult services.

What we at Forward Carers are doing…

As a values-driven social enterprise dedicated to recognising, valuing and supporting unpaid Carers, here’s how we are marking this Carers Rights Day:

• Events (online & in- person) across our regions (Birmingham, Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall, Dorset and Wiltshire) to help you understand your rights, ask questions and access support.

• Measurement and impact focus: we will track how many Carers access the sessions, how many undertake a Carer’s Assessment after the event, and how many report feeling more confident in exercising their rights in our service areas over next 12 months.

• Testimonies & case-studies: sharing real-life stories of unpaid Carers we support, to highlight the difference that rights awareness can make.

Why it matters for Carers and whole families…

For the Carer: this day and ongoing work is about you – your health, your potential to carry out caring in a sustainable way, your ability to have a life outside caring.

For the person you care for: when you are supported and empowered, the quality of care improves, the relationship is stronger, and the whole family benefits.

For services & businesses: recognising and supporting unpaid Carers reduces hidden costs, prevents crises, and builds resilient, Carer-Friendly communities. Indeed, Carers underpin our health and social care systems, and deserve to be “seen, heard and supported”.

How you can get involved

• If you are a Carer (or think you might be) — book into one of our Carers Rights Day sessions and use the day to gain information and advice or: “What rights am I entitled to? Am I using them?”

• If you are an employer or organisation — join us in promoting Carer-Friendly policies, sharing resources, and making your workplace one where Carers are recognised and supported.

• Share your story: whether via our social channels or email us — your voice helps others realise they are not alone.

Closing thoughts

On this Carers Rights Day we commit to standing with you: helping you know your rights, feel confident to use them, and supporting you to live a life beyond caring. As one of our partners said recently: “When Carers understand their rights, everything changes.” We look forward to working together to build Carer-Friendly Communities where unpaid Carers are truly recognised, valued and supported.

Carers Rights Day 2025 – Know Your Rights, Use Your Rights Support 

Carers Rights Day is fast approaching on Thursday 20^th November – a national awareness day dedicated to ensuring unpaid Carers understand their rights, know where to get help, and feel supported in their caring role.  

Across Dorset and Wiltshire, partners are coming together to host a variety of online and in-person events offering advice, information, and wellbeing activities for Carers. 

A full programme of events will be available soon on the Our Dorset website, our own Forward Carers online calendar in Wiltshire, and the Carers Together Wiltshire events – so keep an eye out and get involved!  

Carers Rights Day Online Events  

Remember to book onto these, we would love to see you there.  

The Carers Card and How it Supports your Rights, 18th November 2025 6.30pm-7.15pm.  

Link to Book: Carers ID Card Discovery Session – Carers Rights  

Support For Working Carers-Rights at Work 20th November 7pm-7.45pm.  

Link to Book: Support For Working Carers 

Carer Friendly Day Out To Brownsea Island – A Lovely Opportunity 

This is a wonderful chance to relax, connect with fellow carers, and enjoy the beauty of the island. If you would like to join, please book your place.   

Contact: Telephone: 01202 128787 Email: carersupport@bcpcouncil.gov.uk  

Date: Thursday 23rd October 2025  

Meeting point: Please arrive at Poole Quay to take the ferry to Brownsea Island.  

Ferry times:  

• Departs at 09:45 AM  
• Returns at 14:00 PM  

Brownsea Island offers a peaceful escape into nature, with opportunities to explore the outdoor centre, enjoy scenic walks, and maybe even spot a red squirrel! Facilities include a small reception and toilets.  

What to Bring:  

• Comfortable walking boots  
• Clothing suitable for English weather  
• A packed lunch (or enjoy the National Trust Villano Café)

Did you know?  

Community Action Network Sessions

Community Action Network have devised a session for Carers raising awareness in relationship to Cancer. These sessions are free and can be booked via the links below:

SEPTEMBER 2025 

• Online session, 16^th September, 6.30 – 7.30pm 

• Online session, 25^th September, 1pm – 2pm

• Online session, 30^th  September, 6.30pm – 7.30pm

This month’s newsletter shines a spotlight on Better Housing, Better Health, a free UK-wide advice service helping Carers make their homes warmer, safer, and more affordable. You’ll also find the latest national discounts from well-known brands, alongside local offers and resources for Carers in Dorset and Wiltshire – from community hubs tackling loneliness to practical guides that make navigating care and support easier.

Better Housing, Better Health – Supporting Carers Across the UK

Looking after someone you love can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be tough, especially when housing conditions or high energy costs add extra pressure. Cold, damp, or homes in need of repair, can impact your health and the wellbeing of the person you care for. 

That’s where Better Housing, Better Health (BHBH) can help.

Plan Ahead – Even in the Heat

It might not be on your mind during this hot weather, but winter will be here before you know it. The support from Better Housing, Better Health is available now, so it’s the perfect time to plan ahead. Acting early means your home can be warm, safe, and affordable to run when the cold months arrive. 

What is Better Housing, Better Health?

Better Housing, Better Health is a free, confidential advice service that helps households across the UK make their homes warmer, safer, and healthier. Run by The National Energy Foundation, it offers practical guidance and connects you to grants, funding, and home improvements that can make a real difference. 

Why it Matters for unpaid Carers

If you’re a Carer, you probably spend more time at home than most, and the quality of that home can directly affect your health and your ability to care. 
BHBH can help you: 

Feel more comfortable – Warmer, more energy-efficient homes mean less stress and more peace of mind. 

Save money – Lower energy bills ease financial pressure, freeing up money for other essentials. 

Protect your health – A warm, safe home reduces the risk of respiratory illnesses, slips, and falls. 

Make daily life easier – When a home is well maintained and suitable, caring responsibilities become more manageable.

How Better Housing, Better Health Helps

You can get support with: 

• Free advice on energy efficiency and insulation. 

• Finding grants or funding for home improvements. 

• Repairs or replacements for heating systems. 

• Guidance on reducing damp and mould. 

• Signposting to other local services that can help. 

Take the First Step

Don’t wait until the cold sets in,  find out what help you can access today. 

Funds from every purchase go towards local community work, helping people “waffle more adventurously”  encouraging genuine, enjoyable conversations that strengthen neighbourhoods and reduce isolation. So, why not drop by, enjoy a waffle, and start a conversation? It might just make your day and someone else’s too.

For more information, visit their website or pop into Waffle Lyme to see what’s cooking and look out for Ruth Wright their, Community Co-ordinator.

Carers Trust, recently discovered that 69% of schools reported having no Young Carers at all. That’s despite research showing there are likely two Young Carers in every classroom. This gap highlights a bigger issue: a system that’s failing to support Young Carers as they move through education and into work.

An inquiry is being led by the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Young Carers and Young Adult Carers, with support from Carers Trust to examine the barriers that they face. This builds on previous APPG findings that Young Adult Carers are 38% less likely to get a university degree than their peers – and less likely to be employed. Other research shows Young Carers are 62% less likely to achieve the equivalent of three A Levels.

MPs are launching a new inquiry into why so many Young Adult Carers are being shut out of higher education, employment, and training. The inquiry will explore what government, colleges, universities, training providers, and employers can do to level the playing field and remove barriers for Young Adult Carers.

The inquiry is being led by APPG chair, Chris Vince MP and APPG Vice-Chair, Alison Bennett MP and three Young Adult Carers. They are being supported by a group of 14 Young Adult Carer youth advisors from across the country.

You can read more about the inquiry in this overview briefing.

Get involved in the inquiry

The Call for Evidence is now open for Carers aged 16 to 30, individuals and organisations.

Current/former Young Adult Carers (up to age of 30) – Deadline Sunday 31st August

Get involved here

Young Adult Carers can also submit evidence through a variety of other methods:

• Written evidence via e-mail to appg@carers.org
• Voice/video notes to appg@carers.org or via WhatsApp to 07598 068 602

Individuals and organisations – Deadline Friday 15th August

Get involved here

Forward Carers is proud to support Young Carers in Dorset where they can apply for a FREE Carers Card. The Carer Friendly ID Card displays a passport style photograph of the Young Carer verifying their caring role. The card can be used in education settings to explain lateness etc and when collecting medication from the pharmacy. If Young Carers live in Bournemouth, Christchurch or Poole, approach BCP Carers Support, or if Young Carers live in the Dorset Council area, approach Carer Support Dorset to ask for the Carer Friendly ID Card.

Carers Week 2025 was a heartfelt celebration across Dorset and Wiltshire, with a shared focus on fairness and recognition for unpaid Carers. 

We teamed up with our Carer Friendly business and community partners to bring you special experiences, free events, and practical support, designed with you in mind.

Throughout the week, Carers told us they felt more connected, better informed, and truly appreciated. Thanks to the support of our amazing partners, we welcomed new faces and strengthened support for those who care every day – often without a break or recognition. 

A big thank you to: 
Blandford Hidden Gardens, 
Pavilion Dance South West, 
Leonardo Carer Support, 
Brownsea Island – National Trust, 
Carers Money Matters, 
and Colten Care, 
who helped bring incredible events to life: 

• Hidden Gardens (Blandford) – A peaceful day out where Carers enjoyed free access with their Carers Card. 
  “How wonderful to access this for FREE with our Carers Card. I hope more events like this sign up to your programme.” 

• Pavilion Dance (Bournemouth) – Carers moved to music and shared lunch, leaving feeling lighter and uplifted. 
  “I cannot tell you how much this made my day. Thank you.” 

• Brownsea Island (National Trust) – Ten Carers joined a relaxing trip, while 31 more visitors learned about Carer support. 
  “Really enjoyable day – the island facilities were great.” 

• Carers Rights at Work (Online) – Over 75 Carers joined two online sessions covering workplace rights and financial support. 
  “This was so helpful. I’ll be following up on Carers Leave.” 

• Adam Practice , Checkers Garden Party, Dorset Museum Events – In-person outreach in Poole, Sailsbury and Dorchester, where Carers got advice, signed up for services, and felt seen. 
  (Adam Practice is one of our Carer Friendly GP practices!)

Across all events, Carers told us they valued the mix of practical advice, emotional support, and well-deserved time out. Many said they hadn’t realised what help was available – and several joined support services on the spot. 

As one Carer told us: 
“Yes, we have your Card – but I didn’t realise we could get this sort of support.” 

We’re proud of the impact made, both in person and online, and we’re already looking forward to building on this to ensure Carers feel supported, valued, and connected all year round. 

Dorset Carers: Your Latest Offers & Resources

Featured offer/service 

Buckland Road Baptist Church