Update on the "Towards a new model of Day Opportunities" consultation

We wanted to update you on the progress of the future of day opportunities consultation which took place earlier this year and closed in June.

The Council's People and Health Overview committee was due to consider the outcomes of the three-month consultation at its meeting on 3 November. However, due to the unavailability of key members, this meeting was cancelled.

We are extremely grateful to everyone who took the time to share their views during the consultation. We recognise the importance, value and strength of feeling among residents about our day services and will take this into account in our decision making.

Consultation responses

Our wide-ranging consultation featured a series of public meetings at Care Dorset centres. There were also online sessions, focus groups and surveys in libraries and public buildings. In total, we received more than 1,500 responses, including the two petitions.

Taking into account the 354 responses to the specific survey, the consultation found that:

* 66% used a traditional day service

* 65% identified the importance of being with friends and taking part in interesting activities

* 26% said having a familiar building mattered, but more said they wanted to be independent and learn new skills

* 14% said they did not have any formal support

* 12% stressed transport was a problem.

Most travelled 5 miles or less to their day opportunities, usually with help from family or community transport.

The feedback received had been both valuable and insightful, and it will play a key role in shaping the future of day opportunities. We remain committed to working closely with communities, individuals and partners to ensure that services reflect the needs and aspirations of those who use them.

We accept that change does bring uncertainty but that our vision is for more services - the services that people want and need, to be delivered locally, wherever possible and practicable.

Next steps

The report to the People & Health Overview committee in February 2026 will now consider the feedback from the consultation and the proposed model, providing members with the opportunity to help shape the future of day opportunities ahead of Cabinet's decision in March.

We will continue discussions with a range of organisations involved in the future of our day services. This will ensure that users can look forward to a new model of opportunities, designed to give more choice and flexibility around community activities and greater partnership working across our communities.

The new model is part of Dorset Council's Communities for All programme, working with the voluntary sector, such as community groups and charities to support people in their local areas.

Our formal response to the consultation will be published very shortly.