New partnerships give increased support to unpaid Bedford carers
New partnerships are providing increased support for unpaid carers across Bedford.
Bedford Borough Council has announced partnerships with Mobilise, which provides free, digital tools for unpaid carers, and Blue Sky Carers Support, which provides face-to-face support for adult carers.
Other features of the Mobilise service include cuppas, free online video calls allowing carers to connect, as well as the opportunity to book a free one-to-one support call with a carers coach.
Carers also have access to the Mobilise library and Mobilise LIVE sessions, which feature guides and resources covering topics including wellbeing, finances and navigating services.
Meanwhile, features of the Blue Sky Carers Support service include the Blue Sky Social Care Card, which acts as a form of identification for carers, while also providing benefits including discounts and offers from participating businesses.
The service will also continue its successful Bedford Hospital Carers Hub, which is based at Bedford Hospital, providing support in a safe and confidential environment when loved ones are admitted to hospital.
Portfolio holder for valuing families and adult services at Bedford Borough Council Robert Rigby said: “Our carers work tirelessly for the people they look after, and we’re determined to keep improving the assistance we provide to them.
“Whether it is ensuring carers can support each other, that they have access to the resources they need, or simply by updating our own website to make it easier to navigate, our role is to reduce their burden.
“We are very happy to be working with Mobilise and Blue Sky Carer Support Service to further enhance the support available to unpaid carers in Bedford borough.”