The Dorset Voluntary and Community Sector Assembly (VCSA) is pleased to announce the appointment of four new members to its Governance Board, effective January 2026. These strategic additions bring a wealth of diverse experience and specialised skills, poised to significantly strengthen the assembly’s leadership and amplify its impact throughout Dorset’s voluntary and community sector.
Donna Blanche, CEO of Leonardo Carer Support, joins the board with extensive expertise in equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). Her proven ability to forge successful collaborations between charities, councils, and the NHS will be invaluable in ensuring the VCSA’s initiatives are both equitable and effective. Donna’s strategic vision will help the VCSA better address the diverse needs of the community it serves.
Becky Aldridge, CEO of Dorset Health Forum, brings a strong record of accomplishment of strategic planning and operational execution. Her unwavering ethical commitment to the Assembly, combined with her ability to offer constructive and insightful guidance, will be crucial in shaping the VCSA’s long-term goals and ensuring its continued success. Becky’s deep understanding of the health sector will also be a significant asset.
Emma Lee, Director of Operations at International Care Network (ICN), offers a comprehensive understanding of the VCS sector, gained through her previous roles at Community Action Network (CAN) and Citizens Advice BCP. Her keen enthusiasm for the assembly’s continued development, combined with her operational expertise, will be instrumental in shaping its future direction and ensuring its efficient operation.
Poppy Connell, recently appointed to Help & Care, is the youngest of the new board members. Poppy brings considerable experience working across Dorset, BCP, Wiltshire and West Sussex local authorities, alongside direct involvement supporting board and sub-committee activity within the voluntary sector. Her drive, strong values, and refreshingly positive approach will inject a unique and valuable dynamic into the board.
“We are thrilled to welcome Donna, Becky, Emma, and Poppy to the Dorset VCSA board,” said Ken Heap, Chair of the Dorset VCSA. “Their collective expertise and unwavering commitment to the voluntary and community sector will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our support for local organisations and address the evolving needs of our community.”
With the addition of these four exceptional individuals, the Dorset VCSA is confident that their combined skills, experiences, and perspectives will significantly enhance the assembly’s ability to effectively support and represent the voluntary and community sector throughout Dorset.
Learn more about the Dorset VCSA board here.
23rd February 2026