Our story, our voice
Discover the heart behind Dorset Carers Voice. We're a community of carers committed to making a difference for children and young people in Dorset, fostering collaboration and advocating for positive change.
How we began
Dorset Carers Voice was founded by a dedicated group of foster carers in Dorset who came together to create a strong, united voice. We proudly represent and support kinship carers and supported lodgings carers, recognising the vital role each plays in providing safe, stable, and nurturing homes for children and young people.
Through shared experience and a commitment to positive change, we aim to strengthen the connection between carers and the local authority. We understand the realities of caring—the rewards, the challenges, and everything in between—because we live it every day. That’s why we believe all carers should not only be supported, but also actively involved in shaping the services and decisions that affect them and the children and young people in their care.
What we aim to achieve
At Dorset Carers Voice, we aim to build a strong, collaborative partnership between foster carers, kinship carers, supported lodgings carers, and the local authority.
Our goal is to ensure that carers’ voices are not only heard, but genuinely valued and reflected in decision-making. By sharing lived experiences, we hope to influence positive change, improve communication, and help shape services that truly meet the needs of carers and the children and young people they support.
Our guiding principles
At Dorset Carers Voice, our work is guided by a shared set of principles that reflect who we are and what we stand for:
Listening and respect
We believe every carer’s voice matters. We promote open, honest communication where experiences and views are listened to with respect and without judgement.
Collaboration
We are stronger when we work together. We value partnership between foster carers, kinship carers, supported lodgings carers, and the local authority to achieve shared goals.
Lived experience matters
We recognise the unique insight that comes from being a carer. We believe this experience should inform decisions, shape services, and drive improvement.
"Dorset Carers Voice has truly empowered me to feel heard. Their commitment to collaboration makes a real difference."
A Dorset Carer
Create Your Own Website With Webador