Dorset Voluntary and Community Sector Assembly

Adam’s Blog – Part One of Four: The Power of Communication

Hello everyone,

Welcome to the first installment of my four-part series exploring the core pillars that underpin our work at Dorset VSCA. Over the upcoming few weeks, we’ll delve into each pillar, starting with one of the most vital: Communication.

Why is Communication so important?

At the heart of any successful organisation, community, or relationship lies effective communication. It’s the bridge that connects us, fosters understanding, and enables collaboration. Whether working with clients, partners, or our own team, clear and compassionate communication ensures everyone is aligned and empowered.

Our Approach to Communication

At Dorset VSCA, we believe that good communication isn’t just about speaking clearly—it’s about listening actively, understanding diverse perspectives, and responding thoughtfully. We aim to create an environment where everyone feels heard and valued.

🌐 Our Communication Partners and Networks 🌐

Throughout Dorset and BCP, our communication partners are strategic amplifiers of the voluntary and community sector’s voice. These partners range from major infrastructure organisations to embedded local community groups. Their established VCS connect networks are trusted, agile, and deeply connected across sectors.

Having access to these networks and connecting on a regular basis, help us build momentum, drive engagement, and ensure VCSA and VCS news and messages reach the right people at the right time, with the credibility they deserve. Find out more about our VCS communication partners here.

📡 System Meeting Updates 📡

We are proud to represent the VCS at key statutory meetings, including those with NHS Dorset, the Integrated Care Board (ICB), and the Dorset Health and Wellbeing Board. These meetings play a vital role in shaping the future of health and care in our county.

Our commitment is not only to listen and gather insights but also to ensure that the key points, decisions, and updates from these meetings are communicated clearly and accessibly back to the VCS sector. We value your perspectives and want to ensure your voice is reflected in ongoing discussions. The latest System Meeting Updates can be viewed here.

We invite you to review the highlights and key points we share and respond with your feedback, questions, or concerns. Your responses are essential—they help us relay your views and experiences in future meetings, strengthening the two-way communication channels between us and the sector. Get in touch via email: adam.martel@dorsetvcsa.co.uk

Together, by sharing information and listening actively, we can better support the VCS and ensure its voice shapes local health and wellbeing strategies.

▶️ Using Our Communication Channels ▶️

We’re excited to share that our efforts to expand our channels are really paying off. Our social media presence on Facebook and LinkedIn continues to grow, with followers increasing by 30% on Facebook alone in the last quarter. Additionally, visits to our website have risen significantly, reflecting the growing interest and engagement from our community.

Adding to our digital communications, we’ve recently introduced a YouTube channel to share recordings from our virtual exchange webinars—think of them as podcasts for wider access and learning. Our second VCSA Virtual Exchange Series ‘Inside the System: Meet Dorset’s ICS Partners’ starts in September, for more information and booking links, please click here.

Stay connected! You can also find all the latest updates from the VCSA, including upcoming events, by visiting the News section on our website.

We’re grateful for your support and encourage you to keep connecting with us—thank you for being part of our journey.

🚀 Looking Ahead 🚀

In the next part of this series, I’ll explore another key pillar supporting our mission. Stay tuned and thank you for being part of our journey.

Missed any blogs? You can read through more of Adam’s blogs here.

 

Warm regards,
Adam