Dorset Council has become the 100th place in the UK to become an Age-friendly Community. The local authority joins a growing network of places representing more than 30 million people that also includes Greater Manchester, Hertfordshire and Cardiff. All the...
Welcome to
Dorset Voluntary and Community Sector Assembly
We are all involved in supporting one another in our communities: Together we are the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS). Everyone in the VCS is a partner in the Assembly and everyone’s voice counts.
The Dorset Voluntary and Community Sector Assembly (VCSA) aspires to greater representation of issues that are experienced by the VCS, creates stronger connections within the VCS, and facilitates increased networking and collaboration with partners from other sectors in the community.

Four
Key Pillars
Communication
Communication is the lifeline of the voluntary sector—connecting people, ideas, and opportunities to create real impact. At Dorset VCSA (voluntary and community sector assembly), we ensure that charities, community groups, and voluntary organisations across Dorset have the right information at the right time, through the right channel – helping them stay informed, connected, and ready to take action.
Engagement
At the Dorset Voluntary and Community Sector Assembly (VCSA), we recognise the importance of effective engagement within the VCS. With numerous networks and groups across the sector, our objective is to facilitate connections, foster collaboration, and amplify the voices of individuals and communities.
Representation
Every organisation deserves a seat at the table. At Dorset VCSA (voluntary and community sector assembly), we work to make sure charities, community groups, and voluntary organisations have a strong voice in key decisions that shape Dorset’s future.
Collaboration
Collaboration is at the very heart of the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) in Dorset. It fosters unity among organisations and individuals alike, creating an environment where communities can come together to solve problems and drive positive change. This collaborative spirit is essential for maximising resources, sharing knowledge, and achieving common goals.
Latest
News
Dorset Council Housing Advice Line Campaign
Dorset Council is running a campaign to encourage anyone who is worried about losing their home to contact a free helpline called the Housing Advice line, before they get to a crisis situation and risk becoming homeless. The campaign is aimed at anyone who is...
Building Social Connections across Dorset
Representatives from the Voluntary Community Sector, faith groups and health and social care staff came together this week to discuss the value of social connections. The event, which also showcased a range of fantastic community projects, was the latest stakeholder...
Dorset becomes the 100th Age-friendly Community
Dorset Council has become the 100th place in the UK to become an Age-friendly Community. The local authority joins a growing network of places representing more than 30 million people that also includes Greater Manchester, Hertfordshire and Cardiff. All the...
Dorset Council Housing Advice Line Campaign
Dorset Council is running a campaign to encourage anyone who is worried about losing their home to contact a free helpline called the Housing Advice line, before they get to a crisis situation and risk becoming homeless. The campaign is aimed at anyone who is...