A CARERS support group based in Dorchester has seen such high demand in its first year that founder Enid Evans has decided to set up another group in the east of the county.

The Carers Moving Forward (CMF) support group offers support and friendship to people whose loved one has had to go into residential, emergency or respite care.

The group, which has members from surrounding areas, was formed a year ago and, based on its success, Mrs Evans has now set up a second group in Westbourne, near Christchurch.

Mrs Evans was initially prompted to set up the group after it was agreed that her husband Bill would move from hospital to a residential home.

She said the change made her feel a sense of ‘abandonment and loss’ and she wanted to do something to help other carers who have seen loved ones moved into homes.

The carers group meets on the third Monday of the month at Age UK on Prince of Wales Road in Dorchester from 10am to noon.

Speaking about setting up the second carers group, Mrs Evans said: ‘We have certainly proved the need for people who may suddenly find themselves on their own and are dealing with a whole range of emotions. “I am delighted we can offer similar support to carers in Bournemouth and surrounding areas.”

The new east Dorset carers group has just held its first meeting and will meet on the third Wednesday of each month from 10am until noon in future.

It was launched by Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Dorset Jacqueline Swift, and mayor of Bournemouth Cllr John Adams.

Both had family experience of caring and welcomed the new group. Mrs Swift described the support the group offers as ‘essential’, offering friendly contact and somewhere to meet.

To find out more email info@carersmovingforwarduk.co.uk or call 0300 111 3303.