Access Dorset is an organisation run by and for disabled people, older people and carers, who Dorset Community Foundation have regularly supported in recent years, through different funds.  Access Dorset created a vibrant community hub called The Bridge, located opposite Bournemouth Hospital, where disabled people, older people and carers, “access activities and support, that improves health and wellbeing, builds resilience and develops independent living skills”.

One example of their DCF funding, was through the Vivien Helen Barnard fund, whereby the group was given a £5,000 grant, to support the relaunch of Bournemouth Older Peoples Forum’s Friday Club at The Horizons Café, which is staffed by young people with disabilities. Access Dorset were also funded by DCF as part of the Dorset Coronavirus Community Fund, where their grant helped fund staff hours to ensure the charity could meet the rising demands of its services for people with disabilities, illnesses, and the elderly- and their carers, during the pandemic. These individuals were among the most vulnerable and socially isolated members of our local community during the COVID-19 lockdowns, and therefore the funding they received helped to further Access Dorset’s impact during such difficult times.

Click here for Access Dorset’s Website

Phone: 01202 771 336