The October/November period saw the weather begin to warm up, our garden come alive with vegetables growing and the Dorset House resound with the sound of events and celebration of our community. Some community events included a Playgroup Party for children and their families to celebrate Children’s Week and a Community Lunch for Senior’s Week. We thank the Dorset Commissioner Andrew Wardlaw for attending the Children’s Week Party to officially open our new Playgroup Space. This newly renovated room is now available for running programs, providing adjunct childcare, hosting meetings, and playgroup storage. Thanks to Bridget Archer and Dorset Council for the funds to redevelop this space for local children. We also thank Dorset Council for their very kind donation to support the Senior’s Week Lunch in partnership with Eating with Friends.

In October the Bright Dorset team led by Jodie and Ray hosted a Youth Mental Health Week Event at Bridport to raise awareness about mental health challenges, reduce stigma, and provide information about services available for support. The event was a resounding success with over 140 people attending. Dorset House also supported the Christian Leaders Family Fun Day event with activities and staff and the Dorset Suicide Prevention Network through donations of items for the silent auction. In November, Dorset House was delighted to have Jess Cairns of 'Mindset and Me' in Bridport facilitate two ‘Nurture Workshops’ teaching mindfulness and self-care through art, forest walks and skill building.