The project stems from the increasing dual burden of balancing work and family care. When a family member suddenly requires care, many questions arise immediately: What benefits are available? Where can I find a suitable care service? Can working hours be reduced? What support does my employer offer?

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While the necessary information often exists, it is scattered across various agencies and is sometimes difficult to access or overly complex. For people in need of immediate support, searching for this information can cause additional stress. At the same time, smaller companies and craft businesses often lack their own dedicated care consultants or guides.

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This is where the AI-powered chatbot comes in. Users can describe their current situation and receive clear information and potential next steps. This includes, for example, guidance on care benefits, locally available services and counseling centers, as well as options and rights within the professional context.

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The system is designed to combine information from existing resources, such as the digital care toolkit, with a Münster-specific resource database. Additionally, a company module is planned to integrate information about support services offered by specific employers. A psychosocial component will also point users toward professional counseling services and support groups.

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For family caregivers, the chatbot primarily provides quick orientation and significantly reduces the burden of searching for information. Its 24/7 availability is intended to help, especially in situations where counseling centers are not immediately reachable.

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The service can also create added value for companies in Münster. Employees gain faster access to relevant information, while small and medium-sized enterprises, in particular, can offer their staff an additional support structure.

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At the municipal level, the project can complement existing counseling services and help answer simple, recurring questions in an accessible way. More complex situations will continue to be referred to professional counseling centers and specialists. In the future, the model could also be adapted for other regions.

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A grant of 5,000 euros will enable the conceptualization and initial development of the AI chatbot. The project team plans to collaborate with universities in Münster.