Grants totalling £149,000 have been awarded to 39 small charities and voluntary groups across Dorset, thanks to the Dorset Community Foundation’s Neighbourhood Fund. The fund supports grassroots projects tackling challenges such as poverty, disability and isolation. With grants of up to £5,000 available, this round of funding will have a wide-reaching impact across the county.
At Dorset Lavender Farm Project in Sturminster Newton, £4,800 will fund new pathways between gardens and buildings – improving access for disabled volunteers. ‘That sense of being part of a team, of peaceful, purposeful work – it’s invaluable,’ said project leader Jo O’Connell.
Artsreach will use its funding to establish four new daytime hubs in rural areas, aimed at over-65s and those living with dementia. Planned locations include Blandford or Sturminster Newton, Martinstown or Drimpton, Swanage, and Sixpenny Handley or Canford. ‘We want to create regular events that are joyful, inclusive, and a lifeline to those feeling isolated,’ said Development Officer Kerry Bartlett.
A £2,500 grant to Bridport Foodbank will help replenish stock after a drop in donations. ‘We’ll be able to buy fresh food and toiletries – the essentials that are harder to come by,’ said treasurer Lisa Pinch. ‘This support will make a real difference.’
Dorchester Men’s Shed has been awarded £3,000 to improve workshop safety, following an air quality inspection last summer. ‘We’re modernising our equipment and installing better dust extraction to create a healthier, safer space,’ explained secretary Andrew Rennison.
Bournemouth’s Helpful Hounds Assistance Dogs received £5,000 to continue its work in schools. The group’s specially trained dogs work with pupils experiencing anxiety, autism and other challenges. ‘The dogs create a calming presence, helping pupils – and the staff supporting them – thrive,’ said CEO Peter Rufus.
Dorset Community Foundation Chief Executive Grant Robson said: ‘All of the groups who have received funding have annual costs of less than £250,000 – many are under £50,000 – so while these grants are relatively small, the funding means they can continue with vital projects that add real value to peoples’ lives and impact them in an incredibly positive way.’
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