Across Dorset, more people are talking about the importance of connection and community than ever before. While we know that loneliness and social isolation can impact our mental and physical wellbeing, this growing awareness is helping to shine a light on the value of strong social ties and supportive networks.
The good news is that Dorset is full of inspiring responses to this challenge. From individual acts of kindness to community-led initiatives and structured support services, there’s a wealth of creativity and compassion at work. Whether informal or formal, these efforts are making a real difference in people’s lives.
As we continue to explore and share what works, there’s a fantastic opportunity to learn from one another. Whether you’re directly involved in tackling loneliness or simply considering how it intersects with your work, every contribution helps build a more connected, resilient Dorset.
We would like to invite you to join us for Dorset’s Stakeholder Conversation on Social Connection.
This event brings together community organisations, key partners and leaders to explore how social connectedness builds resilience and supports wellbeing across Dorset. With an ambition of creating ’Communities for All’, it’s an important moment for exploring what builds social connection and how that helps keep people well, healthy and independent – and where we can put our focus in the future to have even greater impact.
Why Attend?
This event offers a sharing space to:
- Hear real stories showing how meaningful connections change lives.
- Discover the impact of small and micro-interventions in our
- communities.
- Connect with others passionate about prevention and community
- wellbeing.
- Help shape a shared vision for a more connected Dorset.
- Influence future policy and collective action.
What to Expect
- Guest speaker – setting the scene for our collective conversations
- Showcase impactful projects through the eyes of those benefitting
- Inspiring and thoughtful group discussions
- Networking opportunities
Recognise the value of impactful moments — and help us foster more through collective action
This event is part of a series of local events for providers and community organisations throughout 2025.
This event is a collaboration between Dorset Voluntary and Community Sector Assembly and Dorset Council Stakeholder Advisory Group and will be taking place on Wednesday 17 September 2025, 09:30 -13:00 at Dorford Centre, Bridport Road, Dorchester DT1 1RR
The first 30 minutes will be networking with the event starting at 10:00.
If you would like to join us, please book your place using this link: https://StakeholderConv.eventbrite.co.uk
We want to ensure this event is a huge success and would like to encourage you to share the event details with relevant people in your network. Please find attached a flyer for you to share more widely.
We have set aside time for networking during the event so that you can share best practice and ideas, we will be offering a Knowledge Drop area where attendees are welcome to share any leaflets or resources for people to take away, please do bring along anything you wish to share.