A NEW guide designed to help people navigate the often-daunting world of adult social care has been launched.

The easy-to-use resource has been shaped by members of the Information Development Group (IDG) – a resident voice group that worked closely with Dorset Council to ensure the guide is clear, practical and genuinely useful.

The aim is to help people understand their options, plan and feel confident about their care journey.

Dorset Council says the guide explains what adult social care is, what support is available and how to access it, using straightforward language.

It also sets out the different pathways into care and the roles of professionals involved.

Cabinet member for adult social care Cllr Steve Robinson said: “This guide reflects our commitment to prevention, independence, and choice.

“We want residents to feel informed and in control of their care journey. It’s a valuable resource for everyone, including our employees.

“Having this guide in an accessible format, co-produced with residents, could be life-changing for people.”

The guide includes a glossary and covers areas ranging from mental health and learning disability support to help for carers.

It takes a preventative approach, supporting not just older residents but working-age adults as well, and includes advice on independent living, paying for care, direct payments and financial assessments.

Cllr Robinson added: “Residents asked for this resource, and we’ve created it together. It’s all about making things simpler and supporting people to live independently.”

IDG member Mary described the work as “an interesting project with an experienced group of people I would otherwise not have met”.

Another resident, David Cole, who both receives care and supports someone else as an unpaid carer, praised the council’s Technology Enabled Care Lounges.

He said: “After just one visit to the TEC Lounge, my mind was put at ease that living independently needn’t be the frightening prospect I was expecting… Suddenly, managing my epilepsy and staying safe felt achievable.”

The guide is available online at www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk