Dorchester & West Dorset CICs

Operates an indoor skate park in Bridport, providing a safe and accessible environment for skateboarders, BMX riders, and scooter enthusiasts to practice their skills. The facility is dedicated to supporting local youth and the wider community by promoting physical activity, creativity, and social engagement through various skateboarding and riding activities. They offer scheduled sessions for juniors and beginners, as well as private hire options for parties and events. The park aims to foster a sense of community and encourages under 18s to participate with the requirement of a consent form.

Provides support services to civil society networks in Dorset, including charities, voluntary groups, and public sector organizations. Their initiatives focus on improving service access and enhancing the resilience of these service providers. A key project is #HelpAndKindness, which aims to foster social inclusion and well-being within the community. They work collaboratively with local stakeholders to strengthen the support systems available to individuals and organizations in need.

Encourages creativity in the community by providing opportunities for local artists to learn, showcase their work, and connect with others. They organize various events, including exhibitions and open-air painting events, aimed at promoting artistic engagement in Poundbury and Dorchester. Their upcoming theme for 2025, 'Bright and Beautiful,' reflects their commitment to enhancing the local art scene. The organization serves residents and artists in the area, fostering a vibrant artistic community.

Organizes an annual literary festival that features author talks, workshops, and interactive events to engage the community in Blandford, Dorset. The festival promotes literacy and a love of reading, fostering an inclusive environment for all ages.

Offers inclusive theatre experiences and creative opportunities for working-class and LGBTQI+ individuals. They conduct a variety of events, performances, and creative writing initiatives aimed at empowering underrepresented communities in the arts. Operating primarily in Weymouth, they focus on fostering creativity and collaboration among diverse groups, including children, young people, and adults with additional needs. Their unique approach emphasizes community engagement and accessibility in the arts.

Offers an immersive D-Day experience through an interactive museum that authentically recreates the wartime dockyard on the Isle of Portland. Visitors can engage with original WWII artefacts, military vehicles, and participate in hands-on activities, such as aiming a Bofors gun or climbing inside a Sherman tank. The centre serves families, history enthusiasts, and school groups, providing educational programs to foster a deeper understanding of D-Day and its significance. Unique features include a full-size replica Spitfire and opportunities for visitors to handle decommissioned weapons, making history tangible and engaging.

Produces creative projects and performances that engage and empower young individuals in the local community. They focus on providing opportunities for artistic expression and collaboration among emerging talent in West Dorset. Their activities include the production of music videos and live performances, showcasing local artists and fostering a vibrant cultural environment. By working closely with local talent, they aim to enhance community involvement in the arts.

Organizes beach cleans, kayak trips, and boat missions to remove litter from the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in England. They engage local residents and visitors in environmental stewardship, ensuring the coastline remains clean and safe for future generations. The organization focuses on raising awareness about plastic pollution and the importance of preserving natural habitats. Through community involvement and educational initiatives, they aim to foster a sense of responsibility towards the environment among participants.

Delivers community-led creative programmes aimed at supporting marginalized individuals in Dorset and Somerset. Their services include arts and crafts workshops, one-to-one mentoring, and practical skills development, all designed to enhance confidence, wellbeing, and employability while fostering social connections. The organization focuses on inclusive and accessible sessions that combine creativity with personal growth, helping participants gain transferable skills and explore pathways into work or further learning. Clearer Horizons CIC works closely with local councils to promote lifelong learning and strengthen community connections.

Offers recreational and competitive coastal rowing opportunities for individuals of all skill levels, including those with physical, sensory, or mental impairments. The club promotes inclusivity in coastal rowing, fostering a community where members can enjoy outdoor activities and build camaraderie. They provide training sessions, organize competitions, and encourage participation in coastal rowing as a means of improving physical health and well-being. Operating in Dorchester, they aim to make rowing accessible to a diverse range of participants.

Enhances community engagement in Poundbury by managing local initiatives and organizing events that foster connections among residents. They support all community members, focusing on celebrating local creativity through programs like art exhibitions and volunteer-led initiatives. The CIC also facilitates communication among residents and collaborates with local makers and businesses to promote community projects. Their activities include weekly social events, art showcases, and wellness classes, aimed at enriching the lives of those in the Dorchester area.

Offers a variety of creative workshops and events focused on arts and crafts for individuals of all ages. Provides a welcoming space for local artisans to showcase their handmade products and hosts regular community groups.

Empowers individuals facing death, dying, and bereavement, particularly those in prison and their families. The organization advocates for the legal rights and personal wishes of these individuals, ensuring that their rights and rites are respected during vulnerable times. They provide resources, workshops, and community engagement focused on end-of-life planning and bereavement, while also addressing the unique challenges faced by those in the prison system. DeathRights CIC aims to build public support for humane policies around death and dying in prison and trains affected individuals to become 'Death Navigators' to help others in similar situations.

Creates innovative and unconventional opera experiences that engage local communities in Sherborne. They offer performances that reflect the area's cultural landscape, providing opportunities for students and aspiring performers to participate in productions. Their approach includes bold, unconventional storytelling and community involvement, making opera accessible and relatable. Through various projects, they foster creativity and skill development in the performing arts for diverse audiences.

Dorset County Dance Festival CIC organizes an annual dance festival in Dorchester, providing a platform for performers of all ages and abilities to showcase their talents through solos, duets, trios, quartets, and group performances. The festival supports local dancers and dance schools, fostering community engagement and promoting appreciation for the art of dance.

Dorset Food & Drink C.I.C. promotes local food and drink producers in the Dorset National Landscape by facilitating community engagement and encouraging the use of locally sourced ingredients. They support local businesses and consumers, enhancing the region's culinary scene through sustainable practices and collaborative initiatives.

Facilitates communication and collaboration among charities, community groups, and voluntary organizations across Dorset. The organization aims to amplify the voices of the voluntary and community sector (VCS) by providing essential information, fostering engagement, and ensuring equitable representation. They support various networks and groups, helping them connect and collaborate effectively. Through their initiatives, they strive to strengthen the VCS and enhance the impact of local communities.

Provides fun and educational outdoor adventures for children and families in the Dorchester area. Their offerings include holiday clubs, birthday parties, and bushcraft courses, all designed to foster a love for nature through hands-on experiences like fire-making, gardening, and wildlife workshops. They aim to enhance children's confidence and connection to the environment while promoting conservation and educational projects. Activities are tailored for various age groups, ensuring engaging experiences for everyone involved.

Empowers women, girls, and gender fluid or non-binary individuals in Dorset through mentorship, peer support, and educational opportunities aimed at promoting mental health and well-being. They offer programs that foster personal and professional growth while working to eliminate sex and gender-based discrimination. Their initiatives are rooted in grassroots movements, encouraging collaboration and community engagement to drive social change. By creating networks of support and strategic frameworks, they aim to build a society where everyone can thrive.

Organizes a family-friendly music festival that raises funds for local community projects and a rotating charity. The event promotes community engagement through music, entertainment, and local artisans.

Offers a unique non-alcoholic pub experience in Weymouth, providing a wide selection of alcohol-free beverages, including beers, wines, spirits, and cocktails. The establishment aims to create an inclusive social space where individuals can enjoy the pub atmosphere without the pressure of alcohol consumption. They engage the local community by hosting events and fostering social interaction, making it a welcoming venue for both residents and visitors. Their commitment to exceptional service and quality drinks sets them apart as a game-changer in the local pub scene.

EAQ Luccombe Community Interest Company is an equine-assisted learning centre that provides alternative education and therapeutic interventions for children aged 8-18 who are unable to access traditional educational settings. The CIC focuses on supporting vulnerable youth by fostering personal development and emotional well-being through interactions with horses and other animals.

Facilitates rural glamping experiences in Dorset while promoting community engagement through workshops and skill-building activities. Offers opportunities for local residents to connect with nature and learn from skilled artisans.

Offers accessible dance opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities in Bridport, focusing on community engagement through various performances and workshops. Their programs include contemporary dance classes for older adults, integrated dance theatre for people with and without disabilities, and sensory movement workshops aimed at fostering creativity and connection. They aim to improve health and wellbeing through dance, providing a supportive environment for personal expression and community building. Upcoming projects include initiatives specifically designed for carers and men, further expanding their inclusive approach.

Promotes sustainability initiatives and engages local residents in environmental conservation efforts in Martinstown. Their activities include supporting wildlife, providing energy-saving tips, and facilitating local recycling information.

Offers resources and advocacy aimed at promoting social justice and enhancing community well-being. They specifically assist vulnerable individuals and marginalized groups, providing support programs that empower these communities to improve their quality of life. The organization collaborates with local schools and universities to educate and inspire the next generation of justice advocates. Their unique approach includes working with renowned human rights lawyer Clive Stafford Smith, which enhances their credibility and outreach.

Provides live broadcasts and engaging content through a community radio station in Lyme Regis. The station supports local talent by showcasing their work and promotes community events to foster connections among residents and visitors. Unique live streams from the sea highlight local stories and voices, making it a vibrant platform for the community. They aim to create a sense of belonging and engagement through their programming.

Organizes educational events and activities focused on the fossil heritage of Lyme Regis, including exhibitions, expert talks, and guided fossil walks. The festival aims to engage local schools, families, and visitors, fostering community involvement and promoting environmental awareness. Unique offerings include interactive displays, street performances, and dedicated educational days for schools, making it an enriching experience for all ages. The festival also highlights the contributions of historical figures like Mary Anning, enhancing the educational value of the event.

Delivers expert-led workshops and courses in primary schools, focusing on digital citizenship and AI training for Year 6 pupils (ages 8-11). They empower children with critical thinking skills and the ability to navigate online challenges while fostering empathy and self-awareness. The CIC supports the entire school community by providing engaging, real-world PSHE experiences that resonate with both children and parents. Their approach emphasizes starting conversations early to help children and parents thrive in the digital world.

Empowers individuals to reconnect with nature through innovative coaching, training, and experiential events. The organization focuses on promoting sustainable living and working practices, targeting leaders in communities, educators, and individuals working in climate and social justice roles. They offer unique programs that inspire personal growth and foster impactful connections among participants. Operating primarily in Lyme Regis, they provide both in-person and online experiences to engage a diverse audience in environmental and community-focused initiatives.

Provides a farmer-led scheme aimed at reducing nutrient losses from agriculture within the Poole Harbour catchment area. They support local farmers by promoting more nutrient-efficient farming practices and offer opportunities for payments for environmental goods. The initiative focuses on enhancing water quality and safeguarding the Poole Harbour ecosystem through collaboration among farmers. Their unique approach includes guiding the development of farm-level nutrient accounting tools and trading platforms tailored for the local agricultural community.

Develops a community hub aimed at alleviating social isolation and mental health challenges in Dorchester. Offers tailored support services and initiatives to promote well-being and resilience within the community.

Operates KeeP 106, a community radio station that provides engaging content, local news, and a platform for community voices in Dorchester. The station is run by a dedicated team of volunteers, focusing on fostering local engagement and connection through its broadcasts. It serves the Dorchester community by offering a variety of programs that highlight local events, issues, and talents, ensuring that the voices of residents are heard. Listeners can access the station both online and via FM radio, making it accessible to a wide audience.

Shared Story CIC is dedicated to fostering community connections through storytelling events and workshops, aimed at empowering individuals to share their personal narratives. The organization primarily supports women and marginalized groups in Bridport, providing a platform for their voices and experiences to be heard and celebrated.

Provides business grants specifically for young adults aged 18 to 30, aimed at helping them establish and grow their enterprises. The organization not only offers financial assistance but also connects beneficiaries with a supportive network of peers, fostering collaboration and shared learning. They focus on empowering aspiring entrepreneurs by combining funding with mentorship, ensuring that young people feel equipped to take their next steps in business. Operating primarily in the UK, SWEF C.I.C. is dedicated to nurturing innovative ideas and helping young entrepreneurs achieve sustainable income.

Offers a platform for diverse voices through poetry and literature, hosting workshops and open mic events that enrich the local creative community in the South West. The organization supports the development of underrepresented voices and fosters artistic expression.

The Portland Association CIC is dedicated to preserving and promoting the environment, ecology, and heritage of the Isle of Portland, Dorset. They engage local residents and stakeholders through community initiatives, educational programs, and sustainable practices aimed at enhancing awareness of environmental issues. Their efforts benefit the local community and foster a collaborative approach to environmental stewardship.

Provides free, face-to-face support for adults experiencing mental health crises in Portland and surrounding areas. Their services include crisis intervention, tailored safety plans, up to six therapy sessions with accredited therapists, and wellbeing resources such as Wellbeing Boxes. The Sanctuary is open 24/7 for immediate support and also features The Cozy Corner Wellbeing Lounge, a space for community connection and relaxation. They aim to help individuals navigate crises and improve their mental wellbeing through accessible and compassionate care.

Offers holistic health products and educational resources to support mental and emotional wellbeing, particularly for under-represented and disadvantaged communities.

Organizes vibrant community events that foster local engagement and support for businesses in Weymouth. The annual Winter Wonderland Carnival features craft stalls, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities, bringing together residents and visitors alike. The CIC aims to enhance community spirit and promote local culture through these events. They focus on creating memorable experiences for families and individuals in the Weymouth area.