Stories behind the budget
How adult social care supports people
When residents took part in our budget simulator at the end of 2025, many reduced spending on adult social care. We believe this is partly because social care is one of our biggest budget lines and, as national research shows, many people don’t fully understand what it includes or how many Dorset residents rely on it every day.
Social care is one of the biggest parts of the work we do as a council. Almost 60% of our spending goes into supporting people who need extra help to live safely and independently. Almost 40% of our spending is on adult social care alone.
Behind these figures are real people across Dorset. Older residents, adults with learning disabilities, autistic adults, people with long term health conditions, and carers. Behind the numbers are real Dorset residents.
Here we share real stories from Dorset residents to explain what adult social care funding looks like in daily life.
What social care funding looks like in real life
A home that helps people live life their way
John and Matt live at Elizabeth Court, a specialist supported living centre in the heart of Dorchester, that was opened just under two years ago.
Keeping life in tune, even when health changes
When Michael, 76, began struggling with everyday tasks at home due to severe joint deterioration, he contacted the Council’s prevention team service while waiting for hip surgery.
From fall to full independence - a remarkable recovery at 91
After returning home from hospital following a fall at home, a 91-year-old Dorset man was finding it difficult to manage essential daily tasks such as washing, dressing and preparing meals.
A place that brings peace of mind
When David and Christine Coombes moved into St Martin’s Extra Care in Gillingham, they weren’t just looking for a new home, they were looking for reassurance.
Support that steps in before crisis takes hold
When Maddie’s life felt at a crossroads, worsening health, benefits stopped, and her home at risk, she felt close to losing everything.
Living more confidently with the right support
Sometimes a little help - the right technology, the right people, at the right moment can make everyday life more manageable.
Why investment in care matters
Adult social care is one of the ways we help people stay independent, safe and well in their own homes. When support arrives early, it can stop small problems turning into bigger ones.Without timely care and support:
- daily tasks can become harder
- people can lose confidence and independence
- pressure on hospitals and other local services increases
- give people the support they need to live independently for longer
- reduce avoidable hospital admissions and emergency call outs
- make better use of public money by preventing issues rather than reacting to crisis
If funding for adult social care were reduced, more people would reach crisis sooner. That would increase pressure on the NHS, lead to higher long term costs, and reduce the support available to residents when they need it.
Care funding is ultimately about people, not numbers. It helps residents stay safe, well and independent and ensures that support is there when someone needs it most.
Find out more about the care and support available for adults.