An organisation that provides a resource for elderly parents and relatives has hired a new regional manager.

Karen Bond (or Kaz as she prefers to be known), who lives near Bridport, has joined Age Space UK as its regional manager for Dorset, and will be forging links with communities, organisations and businesses across the county.

The charity offers practical help, advice and support for people dealing with an increasingly frail or dependent loved one.

Through an online community, Age Space provides a forum for people to let off steam or seek answers when things get too much.

Kaz previously worked in a number of supportive roles in both education and social care.

Kaz's roles have included teaching assistant working in behaviour support and special needs, a care navigator at You Trust, Headway Dorset, the Dorset Blind Association, and a front-line position with social services as a community care officer.

Kaz said: "I am now a few weeks into working for Age Space and I am loving it.

"I was raised on the Dorset and Somerset borders, although not Dorset born, that credit goes to Essex, but I was educated in Dorset from a young age, so I have great affinity and fondness for this lovely area.

"To say that I enjoy dealing with people sounds like a bit of a cliché, but I greatly enjoying empowering others through positive outcomes, I have a very optimistic approach to life.

"I am down to earth, building on life's experiences to encourage, support and sympathise with others who may be experiencing the same.

"Working for Age Space I hope that my knowledge and experience will be a catalyst to continue my supportive role, offering advice and guidance where it's needed.

"I am greatly looking forward to new challenges ahead."

Welcoming Karen's appointment, Age Space co-founder, Annabel James, added: "It's great to have Kaz on the Age Space team here in Dorset.

"Part of what we do is to point people in the direction of their local services, people and information, and with her background and knowledge, Kaz will be instrumental in building our Dorset information hub and getting the Age Space message out there."

The Dorset site signposts services across the county, offering guidance on all aspects of elderly care, particularly around funding and choosing care.

It also provides a directory of Dorset-based services for elderly people, as well as information on local events and support.

For more information, you can visit agespace.org/local/dorset