Welcome back, everyone.
If Communication is the bridge and Engagement is the heartbeat, then Collaboration is
the engine that drives real change. In this third instalment of my four-part series, I want
to explore how collaboration — especially co-design — is not just a buzzword, but a vital
force shaping the future of Dorset’s voluntary and community sector (VCS).
🤝 Why Collaboration Matters
At Dorset VCSA, we believe that we achieve more when we work together. Collaboration
allows us to share resources, unlock funding, and deliver greater impact for our
communities. But more than that, it builds trust, fosters innovation, and ensures that
every voice is heard — especially those closest to the challenges we aim to solve.
We’ve seen this in action through our work facilitating partnerships, shaping fairer
funding models, and advocating for longer tendering timescales and outcome-based
commissioning. These aren’t just policy shifts — they’re cultural ones, rooted in fairness
and shared purpose.
🌟 Co-Design in Action: Our Dorset – FutureCare
One of the most powerful examples of collaboration has been our ongoing partnership
with the Our Dorset – FutureCare programme. Through a series of VCSE events,
including the Transforming Health and Care Together gathering in Poole and the
upcoming Dorchester event in October, we’ve helped bring together VCS organisations
and groups to co-create solutions for integrated care, neighbourhood teams, and
thriving communities.
These events aren’t just about listening — they’re about designing together.
🎟️ Transforming Health and Care Together Event: Working in Partnership with VCSE,
Wednesday 8th October, Dorford Centre, Dorchester (10:00-13:00). Book your free
place here
👨👩👧 Families First for Children: A Collaborative Pathway
Another standout example is our support for the Families First for Children Pathfinder
Programme. Working alongside statutory partners, we’ve helped facilitate community
led support that strengthens early intervention and family resilience.
The recent news update highlights how VCS organisations are not just contributing —
they’re co-leading. This is the kind of collaboration that transforms lives. Read the latest
FFCP Programme update here.
Representation and Shared Learning
Collaboration also means representation. Whether it’s attending system meetings,
shaping policy, or feeding back insights from the frontline, Dorset VCSA is committed to
ensuring the sector’s voice is present and powerful.
We encourage all VCS organisations to share their ideas, challenges, and successes —
because every story contributes to a stronger, more connected sector.
📣 What’s Next: Virtual Exchange Series Two
And speaking of shared learning — look out for our second Virtual Exchange Series,
launching in late September. This round will dive deeper into system partnerships,
spotlighting voices from across Dorset’s ICS and VCSE landscape. If you joined us last
time, you’ll know how valuable these sessions are for building understanding and
sparking collaboration.
In closing, collaboration is not a one-off event — it’s a mindset. It’s about showing up,
sharing openly, and designing solutions together. Whether through FutureCare, Families
First for Children Pathfinder, or our Virtual Exchange Series, we’re proud to be part of a
sector that believes in the power of partnership and co-design.
Let’s keep building bridges. Let’s keep co-creating. And let’s keep making Dorset a place
where collaboration leads to lasting change.
Any comments, get in touch adam.martel@dorsetvcsa.co.uk
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Warm regards,
Adam