MAGGIE Dukes, Valerie Saunders and Mickey the dog prepare to serve participants in the Mayor's Charity Walk, who enjoyed a well-earned break and refreshments in Radipole Park and Gardens which provided an ideal setting for a welcome stopping point.
THIRTY-eight residents attended the Community Meeting at St. Augustine's Church Hall.
The main speaker was Steve Pitt, Dorset County Council director for adult and community services.
He spoke about the wide range of services which are the responsibility of this department, that seeks to feature a "joined up" approach for the care provided.
Funding is a continuing problem, as services are expensive,
The total budget of £80,000,000 falls short by 25 per cent in comparison with the provision per capita in other authorities.
Mr Pitt spoke of the significant changes that are to be introduced over the next two years. Choice is to be ensured through the packages of care that are to be offered and there will be some far reaching effects on facilities that can be provided in certain areas.
Prevention of serious disability can be avoided by early intervention and help provided should encourage independence.
It is unfortunate that funding currently restricts the provision of care to those who have critical and substantial needs.
The talk generated great interest, prompting questions and discussion and Coun. Ellis, from the chair, thanked the director for his interesting and worthwhile in-put.
Mike Clarke of Dorset Agenda 21 spoke about sustainable living.
He outlined some of the new initiatives that are taking place nationally and referred to the film "Peak Oil" that has recently been screened locally.
He said that there is to be a programme of local events that will be published soon.
The Pact section of the meeting did not function as planned, as there was no police presence.
This was very disappointing, as there were issues on which residents were expecting progress reports, as had been promised at the last meeting.
In the circumstances, a list of concerns was made which will be added to the existing issues for action and subsequent reporting.
Coun. Ellis thanked Steve Pitt and all who had participated in the meeting.
It was decided, for the next meeting, to contact a suitable speaker for a presentation on the running of the local council.
10:14am Friday 4th April 2008
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