June 5th 2026 briefing from the NHS Dorset Community Engagement team

Heart health talk in Bournemouth

Dr Chris Critoph, a consultant cardiologist at University Hospitals Dorset will be giving a talk on heart health at St Saviours Church in Bournemouth on the 16^th June at 2pm. The free event is brought to you by the hospital governors and will include refreshments and information stalls.

Download the information poster here.

To book a space please email uhd.ftmembers@nhs.net  or call 0300 019 8723.  

Reengage telephone befriending service for the over 75’s

Reengage is a charity that provides information, support and services for people 75 and over, including a monthly activity group in Weymouth. They also offer a free telephone befriending service called ‘Call Companions’, which offers a regular phone call with a matched befriender to help reduce loneliness and isolation. The service is available to anyone in Dorset and there is currently no waiting list. For more information or to refer someone to the Call Companions service please click on the following link: Get a call companion with our free phone befriending service or contact Ellie Plummer by email Ellie.Plummer@reengage.org.uk or phone 0117 2358105.

Poole Military Tattoo – salute to the services

A military tattoo is taking place at Poole Stadium on Saturday 12^th September, which will feature military bands & ceremonial displays, tributes to serving personnel & veterans, and stirring music, colour & pageantry. More information is in the attached poster or click on the following link for details about tickets: https://poolemilitarytattoo.com/

Carers Week 2026

This year’s Carer’s Week runs from the 8^th – 14^th June and is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the contribution unpaid carers make for families and the wider community. There are several free events taking place across Dorset during the week.

Download the Dorset Carer's Week calendar here.

Learn more about Carer’s Week in Dorset. 

Free DBS check service recommences

As mentioned in last week’s updates, Volunteer Centre Dorset are restarting their free DBS checks for small voluntary and community organisations based in the Dorset Council area. Organisations will pay a 1-off registration fee of £30 and are able to access up to 12 DBS checks annually. For more information and to register for the service please email dbs@volunteeringdorset.org.uk.

The GAP Project Community Garden Open Day

Volunteer Centre Dorset are now running the GAP (Gardens And People) Project at Red Cow Farm Garden.  Their aim is to build upon the original concept and create a space that offers an opportunity for a number of organisations to be part of a 'collective' to fully reflect the diversity of the community, manage the site and ensure that the widest possible group of people within Dorchester and surrounding areas are able to access the garden and have the opportunity to benefit from its universal design. To help this, they will be holding an open day on Wednesday 17^th June from 10am – 4pm.

Download the information poster.

Anyone interested in visiting the open day should RSVP by 10^th June to support@volunteeringdorset.org.uk

Friendly Food Club – a look back at the Get Dorset Cooking Live event 20^th May

For anyone who missed the Get Dorset Coking Live event recently, the Friendly Food Club have created an article along with downloadable recipes from the event. It was great to see PPG members attending the event and some even made the front page of the Dorset Echo! To read about the event or look at the recipes please click on the following link: https://mailchi.mp/thefriendlyfoodclub/the-friendly-food-club-newslettergdclive2026-14197077?e=314a2c9517. If you would like more information about the Friendly Food Club, offer support or find out about activities in your area please visit their website: https://www.thefriendlyfoodclub.org/

Tourette’s awareness month

Tourette's Awareness Month runs annually from 15^th May to 15^th June and aims to destigmatise the condition and educate the public on the everyday realities faced by those living with the neurological disorder. Healthwatch Dorset have created an article about this and have spoken to a woman in Dorset about getting diagnosed with Tourette’s along with the challenges of living and working with the condition. Click on the following link to read the article: https://alecto.eocampaign1.com/web-version?ep=2&lc=9802c178-214e-11f1-8755-b79e68a101cb&p=367d52c0-5a82-11f1-9774-7bc299b175c3&pt=campaign&t=1779967708&s=642918ff5634f1fb67df3b81575a763da6a8d367d47a24edc78cf273050e95c0

Volunteer Centre Dorset newsletters

There have been a couple newsletters from Volunteer Centre Dorset recently, which contains funding opportunities available, updates from the Voluntary and Community Sectors Sector Assemble (VCSA), tips to improve social media posts, information about Volunteers Week (1^st – 7^th June) and Carers Week (8^th – 14^th June), along with the exciting news that their free DBS checking service will be returning!. To read their newsletters please click on the following links: Newsletter dated 15^th May: Latest news for the VCS. Newsletter dated 28^th May: https://mailchi.mp/f753422b06d6/latest-news-for-the-vcs-17734885?e=91cd14bf59

Healthwatch Dorset newsletter

In the latest newsletter from Healthwatch Dorset there is an update about the future of the organisation following publication of the new Health Bill, a summary of their recent feedback received, and comment about using AI for getting health information, amongst others. To read their newsletter please click on the following link: alecto.eocampaign1.com/web-version?ep=2&lc=9802c178-214e-11f1-8755-b79e68a101cb&p=a37bf3ca-5aa7-11f1-b06c-0f516bc39905&pt=campaign&t=1780042260&s=19d862d5a245258823f3734b764d726820f1651d984f1b719a2efff03cc5d503

Patients Association – Patient Partnership Week 2026

We're just a month away from Patient Partnership Week and there are now even more free webinars available for you to book!

The Role of NHS Online: building a service patients can be confident in
Join us for the second in our series as we dig deeper into patient experiences which are being used to inform NHS Online's build and contribute to the discussion.
1st July 2026, 4pm - 5pm
Book now

Why prioritising patient trust increases the value of using technology and data to improve research and care
This webinar will explore how organisations can partner with patients in the use of health data, placing trust and transparency at the heart of decision-making. It will examine how technology currently uses patient data, why involving patient panels is essential, and how this supports better outcomes and public confidence. 
2nd July 2026, 12:30 - 1:30pm
Book now

Voluntary & Community Network – booking links for future events

As part of the Volunteering for All programme, we explored what truly inclusive volunteering looks like. This included considering how small, thoughtful changes can open up opportunities for people who may previously have felt unable to take part. We also examined how inclusive volunteering strengthens and enriches both communities and teams, enabling us to benefit from a wider range of skills, perspectives and lived experiences.

We discussed the different types of barriers that can exist—whether physical, cultural or social—and recognised that communication and structural barriers can also arise, sometimes unintentionally.

During each session, participants worked in groups to review case studies and share ideas. We have brought together the suggestions from across all groups and summarised them into this document, which we hope you will find useful and practical.

Several groups also showed an interest in learning more about how to adopt a more inclusive and diverse approach to attracting and recruiting volunteers. If you would like to arrange a discussion with James or Gerry, who lead on this programme at Volunteer Centre Dorset, please contact us at support@volunteeringdorset.org.uk with the subject line Volunteering for All.

Heat health alerts during the coming days

There is a forecast of hot, sunny weather for a majority of the country for the coming week. Although there is no heat health alert for the south-west , be aware there is a yellow heat alert until 27^th May for the south-east of England, London, east of England, west midlands and the east midlands. The good weather predicted for the coming week will mean the levels of ultraviolet (UV) will be high, increasing the risk of sunburn and skin damage. Effects from the good weather may be amplified as this is the first period of consistent warm and sunny weather in Dorset this year. The NHS has information about sun safety and sunscreen in the following link: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/sunscreen-and-sun-safety/

Places still available on the Beaminster HOPE course

HOPE is a free six-session course that covers topics including communication and relationships, mindfulness, getting better sleep, and managing stress & fatigue amongst others. There are still a small number of places available on the Beaminster HOPE course starting Tuesday 2^nd June. More information is in the attached poster, to book a space please email: hope@helpandcare.org.uk or call: 0303 303 0153.

Dorset’s 5-year creative health strategy launched

The creative health strategy for Dorset was officially launched earlier this week, advancing Creative Health across Dorset, aligning with the NHS 10-year plan and the BCP and Dorset Health & Wellbeing strategies. There are many individuals, groups and organisations in Dorset that run sessions to support people and families of all ages to improve their wellbeing and help reduce the pressure on statutory health and social care services. If you would like to be more involved in understanding and delivering the strategy, you can join one of the existing networks – the  Creative Health Action Group: hello@theartsdevelopmentcompany.org.uk or the Creative Health Forum: https://www.facebook.com/groups/creativehealthandwellbeingdorset. You can view the strategy by clicking on the following link: Dorset+Cultural+Health+Strategy+-+Full+(1)-compressed.pdf

Single Patient Record – your health at your fingertips

The King’s speech last week set out plans for the NHS Modernisation Bill, which includes legislation for a Single Patient Record, a digital record that brings together a patient’s health information in one, secure, easy-to-access place. In short, it will give NHS health and care providers the information they need to support safer, faster, more co-ordinated care. You can read more about the plans in the following link: https://www.england.nhs.uk/digitaltechnology/the-single-patient-record/#learn-spr

Nature Buddies conference – some spaces still available

As mentioned recently, the Nature Buddies conference is taking place on Wednesday 10th June from 9.30am - 2.30pm at Kingston Maurward College. The event brings together social prescribers, healthcare professionals and others interested in learning about nature-based community support and the role of Nature Buddies in reducing isolation and supporting wellbeing. There are some places still available at this free event, which includes lunch! For more information or to book a space please click on the following link: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/nature-buddies-network-conference-tickets-1988005320429?aff=oddtdtcreator

Healthy Start Scheme – help for young families

The Healthy Start scheme is run by NHS England and provides pre-paid Healthy Start cards for pregnant women and families with a child under four years old on a low income to buy basic food items including plain liquid cow’s milk, fruit and vegetables, instant formula and vitamins for pregnant or breastfeeding mothers amongst others. For more information about the Healthy Start Scheme please click on the following link: https://www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/our-services-and-sites/children-young-people-and-families/health-visiting/healthy-start-scheme

BOWRA Foundation - Support for people recovering from brain injury

The BOWRA foundation was created in 2019 by former Royal Marine Mark Bowra MBE to help people rebuild their lives after brain injury and stroke through practical support, purposeful activity, and the power of the community. They offer activities that are planned, designed and delivered to help beneficiaries, their families and carers. They also offer free BOWRA bags - an individually assembled toolkit of practical items designed to support survivors of stroke and brain injury in the early stages of rehabilitation. Each BOWRA Bag is bespoke to the individual, reflecting their goals, needs, and stage of recovery. For more information on the bag and activities offered by the charity please visit their website: https://bowra-foundation.org/ or email: Megan.H@bowra-foundation.org I have digital posters available if you would like to include information on your website, social media or newsletter, please drop me a line.

Creative Health Celebration in Dorchester

Creativity and Wellbeing Week runs from 18^th – 24^th May and to help celebrate this there is a special afternoon planned on Tuesday 19^th May to celebrate the impact of Creative Health across Dorset.​The event will bring together practitioners, partners, and stakeholders to connect, share ideas and explore the role of creativity in addressing current health challenges. The new Creative Health Strategy will also be launched, marking a collective response to today’s health challenge and recognise those who have helped shape it. To book a place at the event please click on the following link: https://luma.com/8hhivibj

Read Easy – Helping adults to read

There are 2.4 million adults in England, that’s over 7% of the working age population, who can barely read or cannot read at all. Read Easy was established in 2011 and has around 100 volunteer-led groups in the country (including Dorset) offering free, confidential, one-to-one coaching to encourage more adults to learn to read. Read Easy are also keen to reach out to GP practices and community groups and are happy to attend meetings to share how you can help them support more adults to read in Dorset. Here are links to groups in South Dorset (https://readeasy.org.uk/groups/southdorset/), Bridport (https://readeasy.org.uk/groups/bridport/), and Bournemouth & Poole ( https://readeasy.org.uk/groups/poole/) or contact me if you’d like Read Easy to speak to you.

Ygam - charity dedicated to preventing gaming and gambling harms among young people

Ygam are the UK's leading charity dedicated to preventing gaming and gambling harms among young people. Their work bridges the critical knowledge gap between young people's digital lives and the adults who guide them and believe in harm prevention through education, empowering the people who can make a real difference. They offer free training and resources for professionals and family members to help prevent young people from becoming addicted to gambling. For more information about the charity please visit their website: https://ygam.org/

Free Dementia training

Good Oaks care home in Poole are holding a free dementia awareness session designed to support families, neighbours, and anyone in the community who want to better understand dementia and feel more confident supporting someone living with it. The event is taking place on Saturday 27^th June from 10am – 12pm at the Melton Court Retirement Community. To book a space please click on the following link: FREE Public Dementia Awareness Training with GoodOaks Homecare Tickets, Saturday 27 June  •  10 AM - 12 PM | Eventbrite

Nature Buddies Conference 2026

The Nature Buddies conference is taking place on Wednesday 10^th June from 9.30am - 2.30pm at Kingston Maurward College near Dorchester. The event brings together social prescribers, healthcare professionals and others interested in learning about nature-based community support and the role of Nature Buddies in reducing isolation and supporting wellbeing. The day will include short talks, an interactive workshop, and taster activity sessions - offering practical insight into how Nature Buddies works on the ground. Attendees will hear directly from volunteers and host organisations, gain a clearer understanding of who the scheme supports, and build confidence in making referrals. The event is free to attend and includes lunch. To sign up to the event please click on the following link: Nature Buddies Network Conference Tickets, Wednesday, June 10  •  9:30 AM - 2:30 PM | Eventbrite

The Living Tree – Cancer support charity for west-Dorset

The Living Tree is a registered charity which offers friendship, creative activities & holistic therapies, relevant diet & lifestyle information for anyone with any cancer. They offer mutual support, helping people cope with the fear, anxiety, isolation or stress that cancer can bring by offering a chance to unwind, share laughter and coping strategies. The charity has several free activities including a Friday drop-in, allotment, table tennis, whist drive, swimming and therapies. Most activities take place in the Bridport area but are available for anyone in the west-Dorset area who have been affected by cancer.  For more information please go to their website: https://www.thelivingtree.org.uk/

Introduction to Allied Health Professionals for year 12 & 13 students

Dorset County Hospital and Dorset Healthcare are running a programme aimed at year 12 and 13 students who are aspiring to become an Allied Health Professional either through university or apprenticeship routes.

The three-day programme explores careers such as Orthoptist, Dietitian, Speech and Language Therapist, Podiatrist, Diagnostic Radiographer, Occupational Therapist, Operating Department Practitioner, Orthotist, and Physiotherapist. The programme has a maximum of 30 candidates, all applications will be reviewed and students will be notified of the outcome by Wednesday 24 June 2026 at the latest. Please note applications may close early due to high demand. For more information please contact: widening.participation@dchft.nhs.uk

Opportunity to participate in Imperial College London’s PPG research study

A supervised research project exploring the factors that affect effective PPG participation in service decisions within General Practice is being conducted by students at Imperial College London. They are interested in understanding whether PPG members and practice decision-makers (such as GP partners and practice managers) share common perceptions of what makes PPG involvement meaningful. The project has received full ethics approval from Imperial College London. They are looking for both PPG members and GP practice decision makers to participate. Interviews (approximately 30–45 minutes) will be conducted via Microsoft Teams, followed by an optional group session.Please see the attached information sheet;  it says deadline is 4^th April but we understand this has been extended), any queries or to register interest to participate please contact: anab.aideed22@imperial.ac.uk

Information on hantavirus

You may have seen coverage of the hantavirus cases and deaths in passengers on the cruise ship MV Hondius over the past week. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have published information about the virus for anyone concerned for themselves or loved ones: https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2026/05/05/what-is-hantavirus-how-is-it-transmitted-and-what-are-the-symptoms/

Volunteers needed to support Dorset Council’s Age Friendly Community

Dorset Council is seeking volunteers to build a countywide network of Ambassadors, to help make Dorset a better place to grow older. The ambassadors can be any age, and all they need is a commitment to helping shape a long-term plan for an age-friendly Dorset. With help from the council’s Age Friendly Dorset team, the volunteers will raise awareness of age- friendly initiatives in their workplace or community, challenge ageism and promote positive attitudes towards ageing. They’ll also help encourage older people to share their views and take part in consultations and campaigns as we look to build age friendly towns and villages across the county. For more information about the opportunity please contact: agefriendlyambassador@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or complete the application form: Age Friendly Dorset Ambassador programme.

New bereavement café opens in Sturminster Newton

A new monthly drop-in support session for anyone experiencing bereavement is starting on 11^th May in Sturminster Newton, run by the Patient and Family Support Services team at Weldmar Hospicecare. The session runs from 10am until midday and follows the charity’s bereavement drop in at Waffle in Lyme Regis, which began last September and continues to provide support for people in the town. For more information about the drop-in sessions in Sturminster Newton and Lyme Regis please visit the Weldmar Hospicecare website here.

Carers Information

• Carers week is taking place from 8^th – 14^th June, if you know of any activities taking place to celebrate carers that week please contact: fran.stauber@nhs.net & dhc.gpcarers@nhs.net – they can help share information about the events.
• To find out more about the Dorset Carer Service, or to refer someone or register yourself as a carer, please visit: https://www.helpandcare.org.uk/dorset-carer-service/
• There is a national organisation dedicated to supporting adult children who care for their ageing parents. Carents Room has a website with lots of information, support and advice, just visit: https://carents.co.uk/
• Dementia Adventure is an award-winning UK charity dedicated to helping people living with dementia to live better, more active lives by connecting with nature. Their website has lots of information about days out, holidays training and resources for people caring with someone who has dementia: https://dementiaadventure.org/
• Dementia Adventure also has an article about Supporting Men Who Care for Someone with Dementia: Supporting Men Who Care for Someone with Dementia | Dementia Adventure and have an interview with a couple male carers including Scott Mitchell, the late husband of Dame Barbara Windsor: Unpacking Dementia: Blokes that Care

Tobacco and Vapes bill

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill has received Royal Assent, representing the most significant public health reform in generations. The legislation creates the UK's first smoke-free generation by making it illegal to sell tobacco to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009, while also introducing measures to tackle youth vaping including a ban on advertising and sponsorship of vapes and nicotine products. Download and view the Department of Health & Social Care fact sheet containing key information.

Sport in Mind

The latest Sport in Mind timetable includes sessions in Poole, Dorchester and Weymouth. Sport in Mind are also organising a free trip and walk to Brownsea Island taking place on Wednesday 13^th May from 11.30. To book a place, please contact: emma.powell@sportinmind.org

Men Walking And Talking group

Men Walking And Talking (MWAT) was founded in 2021 with the aim of bringing men together in a safe space to end the stigma around men's mental health by supporting each other. There are now 65 groups across 28 counties, including two in Dorset! The Bournemouth walk takes place on Wednesdays and the Dorchester walk takes place on Tuesdays, both at 6.30pm.

Visit their website for more information about the walks.

Dorset Mental Health Forum - sports and social activities for all

Our colleagues at Dorset Mental Health Forum run a full diary of activities that are available for anyone to take part. Events include café socials, walking groups, gym groups, gardening groups, crafting and skittles amongst others and take place across Dorset including Bournemouth, Dorchester, Portland and Weymouth.

Learn more.

Improved Wimborne hospital car park opens

New and improved car parking facilities at Victoria Hospital in Wimborne have been officially opened, improving access for patients, visitors and staff while supporting the future expansion of local healthcare services. The development represents a £3 million investment in the site, fully funded by the Friends of Victoria Hospital, and marks a major milestone in the on-going evolution of the community hospital site, which is run by Dorset HealthCare. The development includes larger parking spaces and room for an additional 45 vehicles, making parking easier for visitors.

For more information, visit the Dorset Healthcare website here.

Bowel Cancer Awareness Month

April is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, and the NHS in Dorset is urging residents aged 50 to 74 to complete and return their free home testing (FIT) kits. The test is sent automatically in the post every two years, providing a crucial, simple way to detect early, often symptomless, signs of cancer.

Discover more information about the screening programme.

New HOPE programmes starting soon

Help and Care’s HOPE (Help Overcome Problems Effectively) programme offers friendly, practical courses that help adults build confidence, improve wellbeing, and take charge of their health. There are two online courses starting on 29th April:

• HOPE course for people caring for someone else
• HOPE course for parents of autistic children

Find the right Hope Programme for you or in your area.

Parkinson’s running programme

Physical activity is a proven way for those living with Parkinson’s to manage symptoms and this new walking programme will provide weekly walks around Kingston Lacy with a focus on raising the heart rate whilst connect to the nature around you. The 12-week programme is led by experienced walk leaders and commences on Monday 11th May at 2pm. For more information and to book please visit the National Trust website here.   

Read more information about the activities available in Dorset for people living with Parkinson’s.

New Scams targeting people in Dorset

There are a couple scams that people in Dorset have identified recently:

• Pensioners are being contacted by scammers regarding the repayment of the winter fuel payment (if their income was over £35,000). HMRC have confirmed they will not contact people directly to ask for reimbursement, instead people’s tax codes will be altered starting April 2026 or anyone completing a self-assessment tax return will have the payment pre-populated in their return.  
• Emails are being sent to people warning them their TV licence is due to expire in a few days giving a link for people to click and renew their licence. The emails are not sent from a TV Licensing email address. If you receive one, please forward the email to report@phishing.gov.uk. You can check if you need to renew your licence by clicking and completing details on the following link: Renew your TV Licence - TV Licensing ™ . There is more information about TV licence scams here: Helping you avoid TV Licensing scams – and how to report one - TV Licensing ™

Caring for you in an emergency – Talk on Monday 20th April

As part of the Bournemouth University and University Hospitals Dorset lecture series, an in-person talk is taking place on 20th April from 6pm at Bournemouth University Lansdown Campus. Experts from University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust (UHD), South West Ambulance Service Trust (SWAST) and Bournemouth University (BU) will talk about emergency care in Dorset - looking at the role of the paramedic and the work they do, and what happens in a hospital setting, as well as the latest research taking place in the emergency care space.

Read more information and to book a space.

Healthy Start scheme

People who are more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4 may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk. The Healthy Start scheme helps people to buy products including milk, vegetables, pulses, infant formula and some vitamins.

Learn more on the Healthy Start website here.

New look NHS APP

The new look NHS App is being rolled out to users and will take a few weeks until it hits all devices. The improvements, based on feedback from both patients and staff, make it easier for people to find the services patients need and is part of the drive to improve digital access as set out in the 10 Year Health Plan for England. Changes include a new home page and relocating information making it easier to navigate to the services you need. You can find out more about the changes and view a video about the change on the following link: https://digital.nhs.uk/services/nhs-app/resources/new-look-nhs-app-what-is-changing

Operation Relentless Community Fund

The Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) is inviting community groups and organisations across Dorset to apply for the next round of the Operation Relentless Community Fund. The fund supports projects that help prevent and tackle anti-social behaviour (ASB), strengthen communities, and protect vulnerable people. It forms part of the PCC’s ongoing work to address antisocial behaviour in Dorset. Grants are available to support initiatives that engage young people, divert individuals away from violence or criminality, and build resilience within local communities. Voluntary and community sector organisations, charities, and other eligible groups are encouraged to apply. For more information and to apply for a grant please click on the following link: https://www.dorset.pcc.police.uk/working-in-partnership/operation-relentless-community-fund-asb/

Connect to Work – Skills and Learning Adult Community Education

Skills & Learning Adult Community Education (ACE) is pleased to announce that Connect to Work, our new Supported Employment service, is now live. This service will support residents across the Dorset and BCP council areas who face barriers to employment, helping them move into and stay in meaningful paid work. For more information and to apply please click on the following link: https://www.skillsandlearningace.com/connect-to-work-dorset/

CAN events in April

Our friends at Community Action Network (CAN) have a number of events coming up in April including a volunteer fair, SEND information event, and drop-in information stations. More information about their volunteer fair and all their upcoming events: https://can100.org/training-and-events/all-events/

Help shape new area wards for Dorset Council

A public consultation has been launched to help shape new council wards for Dorset Council. The Local Government Boundary Commission for England wants to hear people’s views on where they live, to help make sure that the new wards reflect the size and shape of local communities. An electoral review is being carried out to make sure that each local councillor represents about the same number of electors, and that the wards they represent reflect community identities. The consultation closes on 1^st June, for more information please click on the following link: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/news/consultation-launched-on-review-of-local-election-boundaries-in-dorset

Care Curious Community Hub meetings in Poole

If you have questions relating to care and support for yourself or someone you care for, please pop along to the Care Curious Community Hub to get information, support, and a hot drink! The hub has helped many people with the big things that matter but also the small things no one talks about. The hub operates from Heather’s Tearoom ( 233-235 Ashley Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 3NR) every Wednesday from 10am – 2pm. A poster is attached for information.

Carers Week 2026

Carers Week 2026 will take place from 8^th – 14^th June and will focus on building carer friendly communities. The campaign aims to highlight the need for greater recognition and support for unpaid carers. A carer friendly community is any place, space or organisation that values carers and takes practical steps to support them by identifying who they are, listening to their experiences, and ensuring they are not left to manage alone. Carers UK estimates that unpaid carers save the UK economy £184 billion each year (an amount comparable to the cost of running a second NHS!) yet many carers still do not receive the support they need. In Dorset we have fantastic people and organisations that support carers but we always want to strengthen the availability of local support—and this is where your help is vital. If your group or organisation would like to take part in celebrating and supporting carers, Fran Stauber would love to hear from you: fran.stauber@nhs.net.

Healthy Homes Dorset through Ridgewater Energy

Ridgewater Energy deliver a Dorset project called ‘Healthy Homes Dorset’ on behalf of Dorset Council and Public Health which provides free support to residents in the area. They offer free energy advice over the phone and by e-mail, or in certain cases by home visit. They also deliver projects which help replace kitchen appliances, install insulation, heating replacements and upgrades, as well as renewable energy technologies, which support you on your journey to a warmer, more energy efficient and greener home. All schemes are subject to eligibility requirements/survey (where applicable). For more information, or to see if you qualify for these services, please check their website: www.Ridgewaterenergy.co.uk  or call a member of the team on 01202 612726.

We’re Stronger Together: Dorset VCS Partnership Event

If you’re a small community group, a large charity, or already a partner organisation, you’re invited to this year’s biggest collaborative event, bringing together voluntary and community groups and organisations from across Dorset, alongside partners from Dorset Council and the NHS. This event is an opportunity for organisations of all sizes to connect, share experiences, and build relationships across sectors. Together, you’ll explore how we can better understand each other’s work, strengthen partnerships, and identify new ways to collaborate to support communities across Dorset. To view the event’s agenda click here: We’re Stronger Together: Dorset VCS Partnership Event or to register: https://volunteercentredorset.beaconforms.com/form/d439b0c2

Newsletters

I have been sent a few newsletters in the last week, please see below information and links:

• Active Dorset – Lots of interesting articles on wellbeing, fitness and movement, you can sign up by contacting: hello@activedorset.org. Here’s a link to their newsletter: https://comms.activedorset.org/emails/view.email.browser.php?id=879-69ce2629de266
• Healthwatch – information about their latest surveys, reports and activities in Dorset. You can sign up by contacting: enquiries@healthwatchdorset.co.uk. Here’s a link to their newsletter: alecto.eocampaign1.com/web-version?ep=2&lc=9802c178-214e-11f1-8755-b79e68a101cb&p=620ee320-2cdf-11f1-8d9d-ff702ced9539&pt=campaign&t=1774964124&s=b9149985c91c3bfbeff9ce78285f1127e7dc8466eeee9e0d8b3f4d84b9a4e729
• Chitter Chatter Club – All the latest from the organisation combatting loneliness through encouraging people to meet up in a social environment. You can sign up through their website: Subscribe | Chitter Chatter Club  Here’s a link to their newsletter: aprils-chitter-chatter-club-newsletter

iPhone giveaway scam

A scam email impersonating O2 tells you that you've won an iPhone 15 Pro and simply need to complete 'a quick 4 minute survey' to receive this 'fantastic prize' is doing the rounds. You will not be entered into a prize draw and will instead go to a phishing website designed to take your personal details and payment information. You can report scam emails to report@phishing.gov.uk  and malicious websites to the National Cyber Security Centre: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/phishing-scams/report-scam-website

DrDoctor outpatient messages at DCH

Dorset County Hospital (DCH) uses a patient engagement platform called DrDoctor that will provide automatic SMS and email notifications to keep patients informed about their outpatient appointments. Patients receive an SMS or email confirmation (depending on their communication preference) as soon as an appointment is booked and reminder messages are automatically sent 14 days and 4 days before the appointment. Just make sure your contact details on your hospital record is correct and you shouldn’t need to do anything else. If you have any questions please contact me.  

Dorset Voluntary & Community Sector Assembly - FREE webinars

Dorset Voluntary & Community Sector Assembly have free webinars that could benefit people working for or volunteering in the fantastic voluntary and community sector in Dorset. Upcoming webinars includes From Competition to Collaboration: Sharing and Keeping Each Other Informed, Co‑Design and Co‑Production: Putting Communities at the Heart of Partnerships, and Partnerships That Deliver: Interactive Workshop. For more information and to book a space on a webinar or to view one of their past sessions please visit their website:  https://www.dorsetvcsa.co.uk/dorset-vcsa-exchange-webinar-series

Get Dorset Cooking LIVE with the Friendly Food Club

The Friendly Food Club are holding a fun celebration of food and cooking on Wednesday 20^th May at the Corn Exchange in Dorchester, inviting existing friends and supporters along with those interested in healthy eating to attend. The free event will feature a great team of chefs, including Celebrity Chef Lesley Waters (BBC Ready Steady Cook), Nicholas Balfe (Great British Menu & Holm, Somerset) and Steve Yates (Kings Arms, Dorchester) and compered by Steve Oxford (Oxford’s Bakery). Attendees will be guided through making a delicious 3-course lunch, before sitting together to enjoy it. All equipment and ingredients will be provided. Booking is essential, for more information and to book a space please click on the following link: https://www.thefriendlyfoodclub.org/events/347/get-dorset-cooking-live?d=2026-05-20

New podcasts now available

A couple local organisations release regular podcasts that may be interesting for you:

• Wessex Cancer Alliance have launched a series of short podcasts on the National Cancer Plan. To listen to all episodes click on the following link: The National Cancer Plan Podcast Series: an overview with Wessex Cancer Alliance - YouTube
• Dorset Women CIC’s popular podcase series is back and the latest episode is on the topic of Improving Access to Sex & Sexual Health Services. To listen to this and all episodes please click on the following link: https://dorsetwomen.org.uk/speaking-of-womens-health-podcast/

BOWRA Bag – a free stroke and brain injury support kit

The BOWRA foundation was founded in 2019 by former Royal Marine Mark Bowra MBE to help people rebuild their lives after brain injury and stroke through practical support and purposeful activity. The BOWRA Bag is a specially assembled toolkit of practical items designed to support survivors of stroke and brain injury in the early stages of rehabilitation. Each BOWRA Bag is bespoke to the individual, reflecting their goals, needs, and stage of recovery and can include things like a non-drip water bottle, resistance band/exercise loop, easy tie shoelaces and a knork (a fork with a built-in cutting edge) in an easy to carry rucksack. For more information on the BOWRA bag please visit their website: https://bowra-foundation.org/bowra-bag/  They are also looking for clinicians with a passion to support the project to join a focus and help play a key role in the bag's development. If you know someone who can help please contact: Megan.H@bowra-foundation.org

Do you know someone who could be a trustee at Dorset Community Foundation?

Dorset Community Foundation are looking for younger and more diverse members who want to give back to Dorset to join their board of trustees. They are looking for people with lived experience of working with grass roots charities and voluntary groups, or being helped by them, to bring a greater appreciation of what they need. They are also looking for anyone with financial investment experience. Please visit their website for more information: https://www.dorsetcommunityfoundation.org/news/seach-for-new-trustees/ or email them: admin@dorsetcf.org

Fundamentals of Care Programme – improving care at UHD

University Hospitals Dorset are inviting patients and/or carers to take part in a listening event on Tuesday 21^st April at Christchurch Hospital. Your stories, ideas and experiences will help give them guidance on the right support people need in their hospitals. Reasonable travel costs will be paid. More information is in the attached poster, to register please click on the following link Fundamentals of Care Workshop or call: 0300 019 8610

Download and view the information poster.

Dorset Council’s Home Habitats campaign – your last chance to participate

Many thanks to everyone who’s taken the time to visit Dorset Council’s website or watch one of their videos, they’ve had over 4,000 people visit their website, over 1,400 people use their energy advice tool and over 115,000 views of their videos! This campaign finishes on 31^st March, if you’d like to test out the energy advice tool, watch a video or look at their webpages links are below:

• Homewise energy advice tool
• campaign videos 
• home energy advice webpages

Help protect against future pandemics – Bird Flu clinical vaccine trial volunteers needed

Our colleagues at Wessex research hubs are currently looking for volunteers to take part in clinical trials for a Bird Flu vaccine. They’re looking for people aged 18 – 65 to take part, time and travel expenses will be paid. For more information and to register your interest please email uhd.bournemouthresearchhub@nhs.net

Help & Care’s HOPE programme in Bridport

Following my recent updates on the HOPE programme across Dorset, this time I’ve attached a poster for the Bridport sessions, which start on the 16^th April. HOPE is a free six-week course, covering topics such as managing stress and fatigue, getting better sleep and mindfulness amongst others. For any enquiries on the Bridport sessions or others in the county please contact: hope@helpandcare.org.uk

Download the event poster.

Do you know someone who should be on the Priority Services Register for their utilities?

The Priority Services Register (PSR) is a free UK-wide service that provides extra support and tailored assistance to vulnerable customers during electricity, gas, or water supply interruptions. People on the Priority Services Register can get 24/7 power cut updates, a personalised power cut plan, Tailored communication (braille, audio, large print etc), and a safety password for peace of mind. Eligible people include those who need temporary extra support — for example after hospital discharge, is deaf or hard of hearing, has a disability, lives with children under 5, is blind or partially sighted, has a chronic illness, relies on medical equipment that needs electricity, or is over 60. Registering someone is free and straightforward to do, in Dorset just click on the following link for the SSEN website. You only need to register once and this will apply for your gas and water connection too: https://www.ssen.co.uk/power-cuts-emergencies/priority-services/

Volunteering for St John Ambulance

The Dorset branch of St John Ambulance would like your help to spread the word about a couple fantastic volunteering opportunities that exist in the county. They’re currently looking for Emergency Responders and Community First Aiders. I’ve attached posters for information, if you could print and put posters up on notice boards and share digitally with friends, community groups and on social media that’d be great. I have larger file sizes available if you would like higher resolution posters – just let me know! For enquiries about the volunteering roles visit their website: https://www.sja.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer-opportunities/ or email Jane: Jane.Nield@sja.org.uk

Latest Dorset Women CIC Podcast now available

The latest podcast from Dorset Women CIC called ‘compassionate maternal mental health services’ is now available for you to listen. It’s episode 5 in the series and there are 3 bonus episodes to listen to as well!  To listen to their podcasts or access the fantastic range of information available please visit their website: https://dorsetwomen.org.uk/speaking-of-womens-health-podcast/

Help & Care HOPE programme

I mentioned a couple weeks ago Help & Care’s Help to Overcome Problems Effectively (HOPE) programme, which is a free 6-week course that can help people manage fatigue and stress, deal with setbacks, get active and creative amongst others. I’ve now attached a poster for the programme that runs throughout Dorset including Boscombe, Bridport, Christchurch and Weymouth. If possible, please print and display the poster in public areas, it would be great for more people to know about the course! Here’s a link to their website for information: https://www.helpandcare.org.uk/what-we-offer/hope/