Bedford Borough Council has joined with two new partners to provide improved support and resources for unpaid carers across the Borough.
The arrangements with Mobilise and Blue Sky Carers Support are part of our ongoing work to ensure that unpaid carers can access the right support, at the right time, in a way that works for them.
Mobilise provides free, easy-to-use digital tools for unpaid carers, including information on benefits and emotional support. This includes “cuppas" - free online video calls for carers to connect in a supportive, safe, and non-judgmental space.
Carers also have access to a Mobilise Library and Mobilise LIVE Sessions, giving carers the choice of practical guides and resources covering topics such as wellbeing, finances, and navigating services, or panel discussions and recorded sessions covering a range of similar important topics.
Mobilise also offers carers the opportunity to book a free one-to-one support call with a carers coach.
Blue Sky Support provides face-to-face support for adult carers, alongside accessible information, advice, and guidance for those who prefer this way of accessing support and advice, and carers who are not digitally confident or able, drawing on extensive experience of delivering reliable, user-shaped services.
There is also the Blue Sky Social Care Card which acts as a form of carer identification while also providing practical benefits. It can help carers and support staff to
- Identify themselves as a carer when needed
- Access discounts and offers from participating businesses
- Feel recognised for the important role they play in supporting others.
Blue Sky Carer Support Service will also continue the successful Bedford Hospital Carers’ Hub, based at Bedford Hospital, offering support in a safe and confidential environment when loved ones are admitted to hospital.
Councillor Robert Rigby, Portfolio Holder for Valuing Families: Adult Services 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.”