More than 24,000 unpaid carers in Plymouth will now have easier access to advice, support and local services thanks to the launch of a new digital platform designed to help people caring for loved ones.
Bridgit Care, now available free to Plymouth residents, provides personalised guidance, emotional support and practical tools to help carers manage the challenges of supporting someone close to them, whether that’s a partner, parent, child, friend or neighbour.
The platform has been introduced through a partnership between Plymouth City Council and Improving Lives Plymouth, the city’s dedicated carers support charity. Their expertise and insight have helped shape a service designed around the real, everyday needs of local carers.
Available 24 hours a day Bridgit helps Carers quickly find the information and support that’s right for them. After answering a few simple questions, Carers receive a personalised plan linking them to local services, events, financial advice, wellbeing support and guidance on managing caring responsibilities.
For many people, caring responsibilities can begin gradually and unexpectedly, often leaving individuals unsure where to turn for help.
Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “In every street there are people quietly keeping our city going, often juggling caring with work and family and rarely asking for anything in return. Many don’t even see themselves as carers – they just get on with it, day after day. Bridgit Care offers immediate support when it’s needed most, whether that’s reassurance in the middle of the night or help finding local services. It won’t replace the human touch, but it will open the door to support more quickly and make life a little easier for those who give so much.”
Ann-Marie Woollacottt, a spokesperson for Improving Lives Plymouth added: “Unpaid carers often feel invisible, and many only reach out for help when they are completely overwhelmed. This app gives carers practical tools, emotional support and reassurance at any time of day or night and it means they can connect with Improving Lives Plymouth when they feel ready. It complements the support offered by our Unpaid Carers Service, helping us stay alongside carers between appointments and making it easier for them to get the right help at the right moment. We’re proud to have worked with the Council to bring this resource to Plymouth and to continue supporting our city’s unpaid carers in a way that truly fits around their lives.”
Bridgit Care is designed to be quick and easy to use. Carers can create a personalised support plan covering topics such as carers’ assessments, balancing work and caring, cost-of-living support, mental health and respite care, and planning for emergencies.
The platform is regularly updated with trusted information and signposts to local services, events and support organisations, helping carers stay connected to help in their community.
Carers in Plymouth can get started at: https://carers.bridgit.care/app/plymouth/ca
