A group of pioneering Dorset towns and parishes are leading the way in creating communities where people can age well, stay connected and continue to play an active role in local life.
Gillingham, Sherborne, Weymouth and Shillingstone have become the first councils to join the Age Friendly Dorset programme, working alongside Dorset Council and partners to help shape a new framework that will support communities across the county. Sturminster Marshall has also played an important role in helping co-produce the approach.
Over a series of workshops, the councils worked together to design a practical and flexible framework that can be used by both larger town councils and smaller parish councils. The aim is to help local areas understand what is already working well for older residents, identify opportunities for improvement, and develop local action plans that reflect the needs of their communities.
The pilot is believed to be the first initiative of its kind in the UK to create an age friendly framework specifically designed with town and parish councils. It recognises that every community has something valuable to offer, whether that is a major community event, local services, volunteer groups or activities that help reduce loneliness and support healthy ageing.
Gillingham provides an excellent example of what an age-friendly community can look like in practice. The town has been a recognised dementia friendly community for more than a decade and offers a wide range of initiatives that help residents stay active, independent and socially connected.
At RiversMeet leisure centre, a community-owned, not-for-profit sports and leisure facility, residents can access specialist physical activity programmes, including cardiac, Parkinsons, strength and balance classes. There are also dedicated swimming sessions for older people and disabled residents, alongside pickleball and badminton activities that encourage people to stay active and meet others.
The town also supports wellbeing through community groups such as Coffee Companions and the Men’s Shed, which provides friendship, practical activities and social opportunities. Gillingham Library hosts reading groups for people with visual impairments, digital champions who help people build confidence with technology, and support groups for carers.
Gillingham town clerk Julie Hawkins said: "Thanks must go to all the Gillingham local voluntary groups, who play a vital role in helping residents stay active, connected and supported.
"They are a wonderful example of how communities can come together to help people live well for longer."
Councillor Steve Robinson, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, said: "Age Friendly Dorset is about making sure people can continue to enjoy fulfilling, active and independent lives as they get older.
"I am incredibly grateful to Gillingham, Sherborne, Weymouth, Shillingstone and Sturminster Marshall for helping us develop this innovative approach. The work taking place in Gillingham shows how simple, practical changes and strong community connections can make a real difference to people’s quality of life.
"We want to see more towns and parishes join us on this journey as we build an even more age friendly Dorset."
Further cohorts of councils are expected to join the programme during 2027, helping create a growing network of communities committed to making Dorset a great place to grow older.
Town and parish councils interested in taking part can contact [email protected].
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