Dorset Voluntary and Community Sector Assembly (DVCSA) announces that our Programme Director, Paula Bennetts, has decided to leave her role to explore new opportunities.
Since joining the DVCSA 18 months ago, Paula has supported the growth and development of the Assembly and strengthened relationships between voluntary and community organisations and partners across Dorset, ensuring that the sector’s voice is heard and represented within wider System discussions.
Ken Heap, DVCSA Board Chair:
“We would like to thank Paula for her commitment and contribution to the Assembly. She has helped to create valuable connections throughout the Dorset System, and we wish her every success as she moves on to new opportunities.”
Paula has built on the DVCSA’s much-valued partnership with NHS Dorset, including working across the wider cluster area with colleagues from neighbouring counties.
Mark Harris, Deputy Place Director (Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole), NHS Dorset:
“The ICB would like to thank Paula for her commitment and support of partnership work to strengthen the visibility and voice of the voluntary and community sector within strategic health forums. Her passion for the sector and its importance within existing and future models of care has always shone through and we wish her every success in any future endeavours. We look forward to building upon her achievements and strengthening the voice of the VCS sector through our ongoing partnership work though the Assembly.”
Paula will be leaving at the end of October and is working with the Board to support a smooth transition and handover to an interim Chief Executive.
This is a time of significant change within the NHS and System environment, and of opportunity for the voluntary and community sector. The DVCSA Board is excited about the future and the next chapter, with a new strategy in place and continued focus on strengthening collaboration and championing Dorset’s voluntary and community sector.
Ken Heap, DVCSA Board Chair:
“We are looking forward to building on the strong foundations established so far and working with partners to shape an ambitious and sustainable future.”
Paula Bennetts:
“It has been a privilege to work with so many fantastic people and organisations across Dorset. I am proud of what we have achieved together and remain passionate about the importance of a strong and connected voluntary and community sector. I wish the Board every success for the future and look forward to continuing to support and champion the Assembly in whatever way I can.”