CHARITIES from across Dorset came together to share ideas about how they can work together with businesses.

The fourth annual Dorset Charities Conference saw businesses join charities to listen to speakers and discuss issues affecting the sector.

More than 150 people attended the event at the Allendale Community Centre in Wimborne, which gave local charities the platform to engage with leading sector suppliers.

The conference was hosted by Dorset chartered accountancy and financial services firm Ward Goodman and included talks from a range of charity and business experts.

The programme also include a panel of leading authorities on issues concerning small businesses and their collaboration with charities.

There was also a charity draw, which saw the name of one charity chosen at random.

New charity City Catering was announced as the lucky winner and received a donation of £150 from the proceeds of the event.

The conference concluded with a networking and drinks reception to give those who attended the chance to discuss future business opportunities.

Sally Goodenough, from Dorset charity Lewis Manning, was among those to attend the event.

She said: "The Dorset Charities Conference is an invaluable occasion in helping charities and small businesses connect.

"Along with the incredible programme of expert speakers and presentations which Ward Goodman have put together, the event is a key networking opportunity.

"I have attended the past four conferences and it has become an event which should be in the calendar of all local charities and small businesses."

Ian Rodd, managing director at Ward Goodman, added: "Ward Goodman host this event each year as an opportunity to facilitate charities working together and equally to form lasting partnerships by supporting their work.

"I am personally delighted with how well attended the event was, with record numbers in attendance.

"A big thanks also goes to our fantastic speakers who were all well received.

"Following the previous years’ events at The Lighthouse in Poole, Bryanston School, and the RNLI College, it is clear that the Dorset Charities Conference is gaining more traction, year on year.

"We look forward to building even further on this momentum come 2016."

The 2015 Dorset Charities Conference was sponsored by M&G Investments, Alan and Thomas Insurance Group, Poole and Bournemouth CVS and WSX Enterprise.

For more information about the event visit wardgoodman.co.uk/index.php/dorset-charity-conference

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