Dorset Voluntary and Community Sector Assembly

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

Help us end homelessness in Dorset

Help us end homelessness in Dorset

A free helpline to assist people who have worries about losing their home, perhaps due to financial difficulties or relationship breakdowns, has been created by Dorset Council, in partnership with national charities Citizens Advice and Shelter. The Housing Advice line...

Dorset VCSA Webinar Highlights Importance of Neighbourhood Health

Dorset VCSA Webinar Highlights Importance of Neighbourhood Health

The Dorset VCSA Virtual Exchange Webinar held on 29th January, recently shed light on the concept of neighbourhood health, defining it as a system where healthcare is brought closer to people's homes. The emphasis is on early intervention, community-based strategies,...

Age Without Limits, Centre for Ageing Better’s campaign to challenge ageism, is running their annual Age Without Limits Day on 10th June 2026. Age Without Limits Day is a day for us all to come together and take action to end ageism - as individuals, in our...

Help us end homelessness in Dorset

Help us end homelessness in Dorset

A free helpline to assist people who have worries about losing their home, perhaps due to financial difficulties or relationship breakdowns, has been created by Dorset Council, in partnership with national charities Citizens Advice and Shelter. The Housing Advice line...

Dorset VCSA Webinar Highlights Importance of Neighbourhood Health

Dorset VCSA Webinar Highlights Importance of Neighbourhood Health

The Dorset VCSA Virtual Exchange Webinar held on 29th January, recently shed light on the concept of neighbourhood health, defining it as a system where healthcare is brought closer to people's homes. The emphasis is on early intervention, community-based strategies,...