Dorset Council getting out this summer to 'engage with communities'

The first session's taking place in Blandford today (Saturday 23rd July)

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 23rd Jul 2022

Dorset Council are trailing a new way to engage with communities.

The authority's promoting face to face engagement, through their sofa sessions after the impact of the lockdowns.

They've said it's 'never been more important for Dorset Council to listen and work with residents, to understand their needs and ensure that the services are being designed and delivered in a way that best meets them'.

The sessions start with a visit to Blandford's Market Place today (Saturday 23rd July) between 10.00am and 1.00pm.

Other dates include:

  • Bridport - Bucky Doo Square on Thursday 28th July, 10.00am-1.00pm
  • Wareham - The Quay on Saturday 6th August, 9.00am-12.00pm
  • Weymouth - in the Square, outside the White Hart Tavern on Saturday 10th September, 10.00am-1.00pm

Cllr Laura Beddow, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Culture, Communities and Customer Services, said:

“I am really excited to trial “sofa sessions”. We want to get back out there and talk with our communities, to have open and informal conversations about what it is they need, and what would make Dorset a great place to live, work and visit.

"The world around us continues to change and we must adapt to the challenges that our communities face as a result. Your input really can make a difference, but we first need to hear from you. We want to invite you to talk freely with us, to let us know what you need and what you think we could do differently."

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