CARERS in west Dorset are being given a helping hand to benefit from a relaxing and soothing therapy session.

The new initiative is being rolled out to provide adult carers with a free £20 voucher to spend on a therapy session with a local therapist.

The carers must be providing unpaid care to an adult living in the county.

The scheme is run by the Dorset Carers Activity Service, a joint project between the county council, the NHS clinical commissioning group and registered charity Access Dorset.

Bridport holistic therapist Sue Wheeler is taking part in the scheme offering service users a choice of aromatherapy or reflexology treatments.

Each service user is sent a voucher which they exchange for their pre-booked appointment, and the therapist is later reimbursed by the scheme.

Sue said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to give carers recognition for their work and the opportunity to experience a little bit of relaxation and balance in their busy lives.

“In this case complimentary really does mean free as well as complementary.

“I would encourage carers to make early bookings as the scheme is gaining popularity and many therapists work part time.

“There are many physical and emotional benefits of having a treatment, so they shouldn’t miss this opportunity – they deserve it. Just one session can make a difference.”

All therapists participating are holders of current DBS or CRB checks, fully insured and qualified, they agree to fulfil their obligations under data protection and have provided evidence of training in safeguarding, health and safety and equal opportunities.

In addition Sue has been practicing for eleven years, and is a full member of the Federation of Holistic Therapists, the UK’s largest multi therapy body which is committed to ongoing continual professional development and voluntary regulation. Sue offers therapies in Bridport on a Tuesday afternoon. Eligible carers can register with the scheme by contacting 01202 771336, accessdorset.org. uk or look out for a voucher in the post if they are already a member.

Sue can be contacted on 07770 779646 or suewheeler.moonfruit.com