At Mid Dorset PCN, we recognise the incredible contribution that carers make to our community. Caring for a loved one is a rewarding yet demanding role, often requiring significant time, energy, and emotional commitment. It can sometimes feel isolating and impact both physical and mental well-being. That’s why we’re excited to announce a brand-new initiative designed specifically for carers in our local area.

Launching in summer 2025, our new Carer Support and Information Hub will be a welcoming space in central Dorchester, where carers can find support, connect with others, and access valuable resources. Developed in collaboration with Dorset Council, Dorchester Connect Hub, Age UK, and Carer Support Dorset, this hub aims to create a strong and supportive community for carers from all walks of life.

What Will the Carer Support and Information Hub Offer?

• Peer Support & Connection: A space to meet other carers, share experiences, and build friendships in a supportive environment.

• Guidance & Information: Access to expert advice from various community and voluntary sector services to help you navigate your caring role more effectively.

• Respite & Activities: The option to book your loved one into a safe, well-organised activity or social session run by fully trained staff, giving you some well-earned time to relax and engage with others over a cup of tea or coffee.

We believe that this hub has the potential to make a real difference in the lives of carers, but we need your help to shape it. What would you like to see from this service? How can we best support you in your caring role? Your feedback is crucial in ensuring we develop a service that truly meets the needs of carers in our community.

Please take a few minutes to complete our short survey and share your thoughts: https://forms.office.com/e/j0BDqtQY6Z.

By working together, we can create a meaningful, practical, and welcoming service that makes a lasting impact. Thank you for your time and for all that you do as a carer. We look forward to hearing from you!

The NHS is at the heart of our communities, and its future depends on the voices of people like you. The government is inviting everyone aged 16 and over, living in England, to share their experiences, views, and ideas to help shape the 10 Year Health Plan for England.

Why Your Voice Matters:
Changing the NHS will impact us all. Your feedback can help build a healthcare system that meets the needs of today and tomorrow. Whether you’ve had experiences as a patient, a caregiver, or a healthcare professional, your insights are valuable.

How to Take Part:

• Who Can Participate? Anyone aged 16 or over living in England. (Unfortunately, responses from under-16s and those outside of England cannot be considered.)
• Your Choice, Your Voice: Answer as many or as few questions as you like. Just make sure to click ‘Next’ to move through the survey and submit your answers at the end.
• Got Questions? Visit the FAQ page or email changenhs@thinksinsight.com.
• Accessibility Matters: If you need alternative formats to participate, check out the accessibility page.

To complete the survey visit - Project: Start here | Change NHS

In today’s digital world, technology plays a significant role in how we access healthcare services. From booking appointments online to ordering prescriptions and using health apps, digital tools offer convenience and efficiency. However, not everyone feels comfortable using these services, and we want to change that.

Why Understanding Digital Skills Matters

We want to ensure that every patient, regardless of their familiarity with technology, can access healthcare services with ease. By learning more about your comfort level with digital tools, we can tailor our support and resources to meet your needs. Whether you are confident with technology, need a little help, or do not use it at all, we want to hear from you!

How This Benefits You

By improving digital accessibility, we can help make healthcare services more efficient and user-friendly. Here’s how:

• Faster Appointment Booking – Skip the phone queues and book your GP appointments online with ease.

• Easy Access to Test Results – View your test results securely without waiting for a call or letter.

• More Control Over Your Health – Manage prescriptions, track symptoms, and access medical advice at your convenience.

What If You Struggle with Technology?

No worries! We’re here to support you. Understanding your digital skills allows us to provide training and resources to help you stay connected to your healthcare team. Whether it’s one-on-one guidance, workshops, or printed materials, we’re committed to ensuring that everyone can access the care they need—digitally or otherwise.

Have Your Say!

We want to hear from you. Speak to your GP practice or fill in our quick form to let us know how we can help improve your digital healthcare experience. Your feedback is invaluable in shaping the future of accessible and inclusive healthcare services for all.

Digital Literacy - Mid Dorset Primary Care Network

Together, we can make healthcare more accessible, efficient, and user-friendly for everyone!

Are you at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes? The NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme (NDPP) is here to help you take control of your health and make positive lifestyle changes. By joining the programme, you can reduce your risk and improve your overall wellbeing.

Many people are unaware they are at risk of Type 2 diabetes. Debby, a recent participant, was shocked to learn she was prediabetic despite believing she led a healthy lifestyle. With the support and guidance of the NDPP, she gained valuable knowledge, made small but meaningful changes, and successfully transformed her health.

Debby’s results speak for themselves. She lowered her blood glucose level from 46 mmol/mol to 38 mmol/mol, reduced her cholesterol levels, and lost over a stone in weight. Beyond these physical achievements, she now feels more in control of her overall health and wellbeing.

Her words highlight the benefits of the NDPP:

“I would definitely recommend the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme as a way to reduce your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and also improve your overall wellbeing.”

If you have been told you are at risk of Type 2 diabetes, the NDPP can support you in making healthier choices. Through expert advice, tailored guidance, and ongoing support, you can take steps to prevent diabetes and improve your long-term health.

Don’t wait—take charge of your health today. Find out more about how the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme can help you by visiting NHS England » NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme (NHS DPP) and start your journey towards a healthier future.