A new artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot called Bridgit has been introduced to provide carers with quick access to essential information, support, and resources. The digital platform, hosted by the Caring Together Charity, aims to act as a “one-stop shop” for caregivers seeking advice, guidance, and connections to relevant services.
Bridgit is available through the charity’s website and WhatsApp, ensuring that carers can receive help at any time. The chatbot is designed to respond instantly to queries, offer personalized recommendations, and direct users to trusted organizations that can provide further support.
Caring Together, which operates across Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, and Norfolk, emphasized that Bridgit is meant to complement rather than replace in-person services. By integrating trusted sources such as the NHS, Age UK, and Carers UK, the chatbot offers accurate and reliable information to users.
The name “Bridgit” was chosen to reflect its role in bridging gaps in care support. Carers using the platform can select from various topics they need assistance with, receiving customized advice, video content, event details, and listings of local and national organizations that can help.
During a city council meeting, Peterborough’s Labour cabinet member for regeneration, Nick Thulbourn, highlighted that the rollout of Bridgit demonstrates the local authority’s commitment to embracing new technology rather than shying away from it. The initiative was developed in partnership with Cambridgeshire County Council and Peterborough City Council, with early adoption showing promising results.
Shabina Qayyum, a Peterborough-based GP and cabinet member for adults and health, stated that the chatbot’s rollout has been well received, with positive outcomes, increasing uptake, and favorable feedback from users. Local primary care networks and voluntary organizations such as Family Voice are also piloting its use.
Bridgit is part of a broader effort to promote independence and well-being among carers and service users. According to council documents, integrating AI tools like Bridgit aims to reduce reliance on formal care services, cut costs, and improve the overall experience for caregivers.
Additionally, Peterborough City Council is implementing AI tools to assist with writing up care reviews, allowing social care staff to dedicate more time to in-person visits. The growing backlog of overdue care reviews in the region highlights the need for technological solutions to streamline administrative tasks.
Bridgit collects and securely stores user data through Amazon AWS and Microsoft Azure, ensuring encryption and compliance with data protection regulations. Carers can also use the chatbot to keep personalized notes, track their well-being over time, and list medications and conditions for themselves or the individuals they care for.
By integrating AI into the caregiving sector, Bridgit is offering a new level of accessibility and efficiency for carers, making vital resources more readily available while enhancing the overall quality of support in the community.
Stay ahead with the latest news on global innovation, leadership, entrepreneurship, business, and tech. Join us on WhatsApp or Telegram for real-time updates. Have a report or article? Send it to report@theinnovationtimes.com.
Follow us on X (Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest and Facebook for more insights and trends
