Updated ‘Bridgit’ platform offers round the clock AI support for Dorset carers

A new and improved digital support tool is transforming how unpaid carers in Dorset access help with an updated and enhanced AI‑powered version of the Bridgit platform.

Unpaid carers across Dorset can now access faster, more personalised support at any time of day or night through the updated digital service, which is designed to provide help whenever it is needed.

Bridgit is a free online service for unpaid adult carers aged 18 and over. It acts as a one‑stop shop where carers can find trusted information, advice and local support, whether that is early in the morning, late at night or during a busy caring day.

Launched by the Council in 2023, the service is delivered in partnership with Help & Care and has already supported more than 25,000 carers across the county.

“Caring can be overwhelming, and it’s not always easy to know where to turn,” said Cllr Steve Robinson, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Health & Adult Social Care.

“Bridgit uses AI carer coaching to take some of that pressure away, offering simple, personalised support whenever it’s needed. It helps carers feel more confident, better informed and less alone.”

“The updated platform reflects rapid changes in technology and learning from the first version of Bridgit. While the service is only a few years old, the original design had become outdated. Generation 2 introduces AI technology to provide carers with quicker, more tailored support, shaped by feedback from carers, stakeholders and partner organisations.”

At the heart of the new platform is the AI Carer Coach, which provides personalised responses based on what carers choose to share. This helps users find relevant information on topics such as benefits, health conditions, assessments and local services. The more information a carer provides, the more personalised the support becomes.

Bridgit can be used anonymously or with an account, giving carers control over how they engage with the service. Those who choose to can share information with their GP or Dorset Council’s Help & Care service, helping professionals better understand their caring role. Carers can also access a free Dorset Carer Friendly ID card through the platform.

A key improvement in the updated Bridgit is a simpler, strengths-based pre-assessment. By answering a short set of questions, carers can have their needs identified early and, where appropriate, shared with Help & Care.

This reduces the need to repeat information, supports earlier advice and guidance, and helps ensure carers are directed to the right support more quickly.

Help & Care will make a referral on to Dorset Council for a Carer Assessment if required on the carer's behalf preventing the carer from having to repeat their story.

Accessed online or by phone the platform offers adjustable reading styles and response formats and offers multilingual support. Users can choose shorter or more detailed answers and tailor support for needs such as autism, ADHD, or dyslexia. Safeguarding and data protection are built into the platform, with expert oversight to ensure responses are safe, ethical and appropriate.

A new awareness campaign to promote the updated platform across Dorset is scheduled for later this year.

Get support online at a time that suits you or have a chat with a Bridgit AI coach on 01305 237395 or visit the website. 

If you prefer to speak to a person, call Dorset Carer service delivered by Help & Care support team on 0303 303 0153.

Bridgit Generation 2 has gone live during Carers Week 2026