Progress so far
In 2021, and again in 2023, we asked people who use day opportunities about their experiences.
They told us they would like a wider choice of local activities with more flexible options. They also said that they wanted to be able to do activities during the evening and weekends.
Speaking to people has helped understand what people want from day opportunities. We need to change the way we deliver these to give people more choice and flexibility.
We are proposing to introduce hubs across the county. Here you could:
- visit to find information
- meet friends
- find out what is happening in your area
- join activities that may be of interest to you
The hubs will connect to a range of community activities (spokes) which will include:
- specialist services
- libraries
- community centres
- cafes
- community groups
The community activities (spokes) will provide a wider range of activities. They will also offer more times people can use them, to include evenings and weekends.
Day opportunities are activities which will help you develop new skills. They will help you to maintain, or increase your independence or support your care needs.
Day opportunities can be:
- life skills training
- support to find a job
- time at a day centre
- a sporting activity
- clubs and social activities
- less formal activities such as time with friends, nature walks or visits to the local town centre
Here is a short video about Tom's experience using a day opportunity.
Consultation
The consultation period closed on Monday 9th June 2025. Thank you for all of your comments and feedback.
We will now begin collating all the feedback received over July and August and take a report with our conclusions to cabinet in the Autumn.
Further information
More information about the proposed changes happening in your area has been included below.
North Dorset
North Dorset includes:
- Stour Connect
- Blandford Connect
- Sherborne Connect
- Shaftesbury Plus
North Dorset brochure - more information about the changes in North Dorset.
North Dorset easy read brochure - read information about the changes in North Dorset.
East Dorset
East Dorset includes:
- Verwood Connect
- Ferndown Plus
East Dorset brochure - more information about the changes in East Dorset.
East Dorset easy read brochure - read information about the changes in East Dorset.
Purbeck
Purbeck includes:
- Wareham Plus
- Purbeck Connect
Purbeck brochure - more information about the changes in Purbeck.
Purbeck easy read brochure - read information about the changes in Purbeck.
West Dorset
West Dorset includes:
- Dorchester Connect
- Bridport Connect
West Dorset brochure - more information about the changes in West Dorset.
West Dorset easy read brochure - read information about the changes in West Dorset.
Weymouth and Portland
Weymouth and Portland includes:
- Weymouth and Portland Connect
- Ridgeway Plus
Weymouth and Portland brochure - more information about the changes in Weymouth and Portland.