The first ever Carers Dorset Festival takes place next week with events at Dorset Museum.

Taking place on national Carers Rights Day - Thursday, November 25 - the event will offer information, tips and support for unpaid carers.

A series of free bite-size information events and inspirational talks for unpaid carers will be held across Dorset and can also be accessed online.

There will be a talk by Radio 2's Johnnie Walker and his wife, Tiggy, co-patrons of Carers UK, at Dorset Museum in Dorchester.

The festival aims to celebrate and support unpaid carers, bringing them together with organisations across Dorset to help them find out how to get the help and support they are entitled to.

Carers who book the talk at Dorset Museum will also receive a goody bag provided by the Leonardo Trust, and independent charity to help people in the county who care for a sick or disabled relative.

There will also be 30 digital events featuring topics such as ideas about how to take a break, planning ahead, keeping safe at home, welfare benefits, mindfulness, connect with unpaid carers and more, as well as resources available to download.

Councillor Peter Wharf, Dorset Council portfolio holder for adult social care and health, said: "We are thrilled to be able to put on such a wide range of free information, advice and support sessions to celebrate all the work that our Dorset carers do to help and support others.

"Being a carer for someone can be an isolating experience, so this festival is a way of people being able to join others with shared experiences.

"A huge thank you to the guest speakers and all of the organisations giving up their time to make this festival happen. I hope it brings help and support to those who help and support others."

Councillor Karen Rampton, portfolio holder for people and homes, said: "Our unpaid carers do an amazing job every day.

"Whether that's looking after a loved one, a friend or neighbour and I'm delighted that we are able to mark nation Carers Rights Day by bringing organisations together to provide events and information to support and celebrate carers."

To find out more about the sessions and book your free place, visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

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