Social Prescribing Resource Sheet:
Pain Management

 

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Introduction

This resource sheet includes a selection of services, tools, and organisations that others have found helpful.

If you require further support in accessing these, or other services, please contact the Social Prescribing Team on 01308 428943 or contact us via our online form.

neck-pain

 

Social Prescribing is available at your GP Surgery

If you live in Bridport, Beaminster, Lyme Regis or the wider West Dorset area, you can speak directly with our Social Prescribers and Care Coordinators - no referral needed.

  • Support with finances
  • Getting Active
  • Hobbies and Interests
  • Connecting to Community
  • Supporting wellbeing
  • Help with Long Term Conditions

 

Clinical Support

Dorset Pain Management Service

The Dorset Pain Management Service (DPMS) supports individuals with chronic pain, helping improve their quality of life and independence.  It addresses musculoskeletal, neurological, organ-related , and unexplained pain.

They offer a comprehensive range of support and treatments tailored to individual needs.  The Social Prescribing team can help you with a referral.

Telephone: 01305 363019 

Website: Visit the Dorset Pain Management Service website

 

Local Resources to help with pain management

Monthly Peer Support Coffee

Meets on the first Friday on the month at Bridport Medical Centre, West Allington from 10.00-12.00 noon.  Staff from DPMS and Social Prescribing are present to facilitate and support alongside people with lived experience of living with chronic pain.

Telephone: 01308 428943

 

Bridport Leisure Centre

Chronic pain management class, Wednesdays 13.15 – 1415.  A gentle class to improve mobility with a specialist instructor.  Book directly with the Centre:

Location: Brewery Fields, Skilling Hill Road, Bridport DT6 5LN

Telephone: 01308 427464

Website: Visit the Bridport Leisure Centre website

 

Yoga for Fibromyalgia, Parkinsons and arthritis/limited mobility  

Inclusive gentle classes. Yellow room, Chapel in the Garden.  Thursdays 11.00am to 12pm noon.  Email Lucy to register:

Venue: Chapel in the Garden, 49 East Street, Bridport DT6 3JX

Email: Email Yoga for Lucy Dance Yoga

 

Yoga4Pain

Gentle Yoga with tea, coffee and social support.  Tuesdays 2.00pm to 3.30pm in Uplyme.  Contact Judith for information and to enrol.

Venue: Uplyme Scout hall, Rhode Lane, Uplyme, DT7 3TX

Telephone: 07973 600382

Website: Visit the Yoga4Pain website

Tripudio Movement

Gentle strengthening and low impact aerobic dance set to music with a focus on the fluid systems of the body. Class can be taken seated or standing and emphasise fun.  Classes throughout Bridport and surrounding area.  Please visit the website or contact Social Prescribing for the latest timetable.

Telephone: Julia Williams 07734 511287

Website: Visit the Tripudio Movement website

Flamingo Community and Hydrotherapy Pool

A regular 25m swimming pool plus a 6 sqm hydrotherapy pool with hoist and wide shallow steps.  Regular swimming sessions and the hydrotherapy pool is bookable in 1 hour slots.

Telephone: 01297 358000

Venue: Lyme Road, Axminster, EX13 5AZ

Website: Visit the Flamingo Community and Hydrotherapy Pool website

Live Well with Pain

Accredited by the Personalised Care Institute this website offers lots of resources, top tips and self help programmes to support you in managing your pain.  The Ten Footsteps to Living Well with Pain’ is a step-by-step online guide which is always available via the website.

Website: Visit the Live Well with Pain website

 

Further Information

While we hope you may find something here that supports you, please note that these resources are not all officially endorsed by the NHS. We endeavour to ensure that all listings are accurate and up to date, but please be aware that we cannot guarantee this at all times.

If you are a local service, organisation or group that would like to be included in this guide, please contact us via secure online form or call the PCN Admin Team on 01308 801810 and tell us about your support offering.

Last updated: July 2025.

Social Prescribing Resource Sheet:
Parkinsons

 

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Parkinsons

This resource sheet includes a selection of services, tools, and organisations that others have found helpful.

If you require further support in accessing these, or other services, please contact the Social Prescribing Team on 01308 428943 or contact us via our online form.

older-female-consultation-dec2021

 

Social Prescribing is available at your GP Surgery

If you live in Bridport, Beaminster, Lyme Regis or the wider West Dorset area, you can speak directly with our Social Prescribers and Care Coordinators - no referral needed.

  • Support with finances
  • Getting Active
  • Hobbies and Interests
  • Connecting to Community
  • Supporting wellbeing
  • Help with Long Term Conditions

 

The Dorset Nurse-Led Parkinson’s Disease Service

Parkinson’s is a slowly progressive neurological condition that occurs when cells are lost from the part of the brain that controls movement.  Parkinson’s affects every person differently. The symptoms and rate of progression vary from person to person. The Dorset Nurse-Led Parkinson’s Disease Service offer support to patients and their Carers.

The service can be contacted Monday – Friday 7.30am to 5.00pm (excluding Wednesdays) and except Bank Holidays.

They can support with:

  • Early Intervention
  • proactive review
  • Self-Management
  • Food and drink
  • Treatment
  • Lifestyle changes
  • Activity
  • Managing symptoms 
  • What to do if you feel unwell

Contact: Carole Walker – Parkinson’s Disease Nurse Specialist (Blandford Community Hospital)

Telephone: 01258 394127

Local support groups

There are some Parkinson’s support groups that run locally.

Bridport and District Parkinson’s Support Group

Location: St Swithun’s Church Hall Bridport

When: 4th Tuesday of the month 2.00pm to 4.00pm

Contact: Frances Morgan 07876 692006

Parkinson’s Tripudio Exercise Class

Location:

When: Tuesdays Fortnightly 11.15am to 12.15pm 

Lyme Regis Parkinson’s Support Group

Location: Lyme Regis Power Boat Club, Monmouth Beach, Lyme Regis DT7 3LE

When: 2nd Tuesday of the month 2.00pm to 3.30pm

Contact: Visit the Lyme Regis Parkinson’s Support Group website (contact Spehanie Coulsdon via the website)

Weymouth and Dorchester Parkinson’s Support

Location: Upwey and Broadwey Memorial Hall DT3 5NG

Telephone: 01305 835108

Parkinson’s UK

There is support available through Parkinson’s UK's website. They have a free helpline with trained advisers. If you need more in depth support the advisor can put you through to the South West Team or local support.

You can get support with things like:

  • Emotional support
  • Rights and entitlements
  • Navigating the benefits process
  • Grants and financial help
  • Carer support

Website: Visit the Parkinson’s UK website

Telephone: 0808 800 0303

 

Further Information

While we hope you may find something here that supports you, please note that these resources are not all officially endorsed by the NHS. We endeavour to ensure that all listings are accurate and up to date, but please be aware that we cannot guarantee this at all times.

If you are a local service, organisation or group that would like to be included in this guide, please contact us via secure online form or call the PCN Admin Team on 01308 801810 and tell us about your support offering.

Last updated: July 2025.

Social Prescribing Resource Sheet:
Rape and Sexual Assault

 

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We’re sorry to hear that you’re going through a difficult time. This resource sheet includes a selection of services, tools, and organisations that others have found helpful.

If you require further support in accessing these, or other services, please contact the Social Prescribing Team on 01308 428943 or contact us via our online form.

bereavement_2071122

 

Social Prescribing is available at your GP Surgery

If you live in Bridport, Beaminster, Lyme Regis or the wider West Dorset area, you can speak directly with our Social Prescribers and Care Coordinators - no referral needed.

  • Support with finances
  • Getting Active
  • Hobbies and Interests
  • Connecting to Community
  • Supporting wellbeing
  • Help with Long Term Conditions

Local Support

The Shores – Dorset's Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC)

Based in Bournemouth, The Shores serves all of Dorset, including West Dorset.

They offer 24/7 crisis support, forensic medical examinations (with or without police involvement), emergency contraception, STI screening, pregnancy testing, and access to an Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) plus counselling.

You retain full control: reporting to the police is optional. SARCs can preserve forensic evidence discreetly until you're ready.

Telephone: 0800 970 9954 – free and available 24/7, 365 days a year

Email: Email The Shores – Dorset's Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC)

Website: Visit the The Shores – Dorset's Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) website

STARS Dorset – Sexual Trauma & Recovery Service

Provides free, confidential one-to-one trauma-informed counselling, and an ISVA service to anyone living, working, or studying in Dorset, regardless of when the abuse happened.

Telephone: 01202 308 855

Website: Visit the STARS Dorset – Sexual Trauma & Recovery Service website

Victim Support Dorset

An independent charity who provide one-to-one support for all victims of crime, including support for female and male victims of domestic abuse and non-recent sexual abuse.

They also support children and young people affected by crime. Their specialist domestic abuse supporter works with children aged 4–17 to help them cope with lived experience of domestic abuse.

Support is free, confidential, and tailored to your needs. Independent of the police — you don’t have to report what happened to receive help.

Telephone (Dorset): 0300 3030 163

Email: Email Victim Support Dorset

National helpline: 0808 1689 111

Live chat: Available 24/7, free and confidential. Visit Visit the Victim Support Dorset website

National and Regional Support

The Survivor Pathway

An online resource for anyone wanting to know more about sexual violence support services in the South West.

Website: Visit the The Survivor Pathway website

Rape Crisis (England & Wales)

Open regardless of gender, age, or whether you want to report.

24/7 Freephone: 0808 5000 2222

Website: Visit the Rape Crisis (England & Wales) website

 

Further Information

While we hope you may find something here that supports you, please note that these resources are not all officially endorsed by the NHS. We endeavour to ensure that all listings are accurate and up to date, but please be aware that we cannot guarantee this at all times.

If you are a local service, organisation or group that would like to be included in this guide, please contact us via secure online form or call the PCN Admin Team on 01308 801810 and tell us about your support offering.

Last updated: August 2025.

Social Prescribing Resource Sheet:
Relationship Counselling

 

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Relationship Counselling

We're sorry to hear you're going through a difficult time. This resource sheet includes a selection of services, tools, and organisations that others have found helpful.

If you require further support in accessing these, or other services, please contact the Social Prescribing Team on 01308 428943 or contact us via our online form.

relationship counselling

Social Prescribing is available at your GP Surgery

If you live in Bridport, Beaminster, Lyme Regis or the wider West Dorset area, you can speak directly with our Social Prescribers and Care Coordinators - no referral needed.

  • Support with finances
  • Getting Active
  • Hobbies and Interests
  • Connecting to Community
  • Supporting wellbeing
  • Help with Long Term Conditions

 

Relate

Relate is a well-established relationship counselling service with centres in Yeovil and Poundbury. Daytime appointments currently cost £60, while evening appointments are £70.

You can contact Relate directly to discuss your circumstances and the best way to introduce the idea of counselling to your partner.

There is no formal referral pathway required—you can register online or call them directly for more information.

Steps2Wellbeing (NHS Service)

Steps2Wellbeing is the NHS-provided talking therapy service in Dorset and offers relationship counselling free of charge. This service is particularly beneficial for couples whose relationship is affected by low mood or depression, whether in one or both partners.

Your Social Prescriber can refer you to this service, but you can also self-refer using the details below.

Private Counsellors

BACP Therapist Directory

There are many private counsellors available who offer relationship counselling. A useful resource for finding accredited professionals is the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) directory. This allows you to search by location, specialism, and type of service. All counsellors listed are BACP-accredited.

Website: Visit the BACP Therapist Directory website

 

Further Information

While we hope you may find something here that supports you, please note that these resources are not all officially endorsed by the NHS. We endeavour to ensure that all listings are accurate and up to date, but please be aware that we cannot guarantee this at all times.

If you are a local service, organisation or group that would like to be included in this guide, please contact us via secure online form or call the PCN Admin Team on 01308 801810 and tell us about your support offering.

Last updated: July 2025.

Social Prescribing Resource Sheet:
Sexual Health

 

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Sexual Health

This resource sheet includes a selection of services, tools, and organisations that others have found helpful.

If you require further support in accessing these, or other services, please contact the Social Prescribing Team on 01308 428943 or contact us via our online form.

sexual-health-april-2022

 

Social Prescribing is available at your GP Surgery

If you live in Bridport, Beaminster, Lyme Regis or the wider West Dorset area, you can speak directly with our Social Prescribers and Care Coordinators - no referral needed.

  • Support with finances
  • Getting Active
  • Hobbies and Interests
  • Connecting to Community
  • Supporting wellbeing
  • Help with Long Term Conditions

 

Online - Sexual Health Dorset

Sexual Health Dorset - is the free contraception and sexual health service for all ages, provided by Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust. We offer a wide range of confidential services, including STI testing and treatment, contraception (including emergency contraception), PEP, and specialist young people’s services. We also offer postal STI testing, treatment and contraception.  

Website: Visit the Online - Sexual Health Dorset website

 

Online - CHAT Sexual Health Dorset

Text: For free and confidential advice send a TEXT to 07312 263101

 

Sexual Health Advice in Person

Bridport Community Hospital

Your nearest Sexual Health Clinic is at Bridport Community Hospital, Hospital Lane, Bridport, DT6 5DR

Services Available:

  • STI testing and treatment for people with symptoms
  • Emergency contraception
  • Contraception
  • Young people’s service (under 21 years)
  • Coil fitting and removal
  • Implant fitting and removal
  • PEP
  • Vaccines 
  • Free condoms
  • Sexual health advice and support

Telephone: To book an appointment call 0300 303 1948 (Phoneline open 08:15am to 4:45pm Monday-Friday, closed 12:30pm to 1:30pm for lunch)

 

C-Card Scheme - Free condoms for under 25s

If you're aged 13-24 years old, you can get free condoms from a wide range of places across Dorset, including colleges, young people services and schools, as part of the C-Card (Condom-Card) scheme.

All you have to do is visit one of the C-Card venues, have a short, confidential consultation with a trained member of staff who will then give you a C-Card and condoms. Once you have a C-Card you can access free condoms from any venues on our list of C-Card distributors.

Website: Visit the C-Card Scheme - Free condoms for under 25s website (To find your nearest C-Card venue)

 

Emergency Sexual Health

Emergency contraception

Website: Visit the Emergency contraception website

PEP after Sexual Exposure to HIV

Website: Visit the PEP after Sexual Exposure to HIV website

Sexual Assault

Website: Visit the Sexual Assault website

 

Further Information

While we hope you may find something here that supports you, please note that these resources are not all officially endorsed by the NHS. We endeavour to ensure that all listings are accurate and up to date, but please be aware that we cannot guarantee this at all times.

If you are a local service, organisation or group that would like to be included in this guide, please contact us via secure online form or call the PCN Admin Team on 01308 801810 and tell us about your support offering.

Last updated: July 2025.

Social Prescribing Resource Sheet:
Social Interaction

 

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Social Interaction & Isolation

This resource sheet includes a selection of services, tools, and organisations that others have found helpful.

If you require further support in accessing these, or other services, please contact the Social Prescribing Team on 01308 428943 or contact us via our online form.

social-prescriber-may2022

 

Social Prescribing is available at your GP Surgery

If you live in Bridport, Beaminster, Lyme Regis or the wider West Dorset area, you can speak directly with our Social Prescribers and Care Coordinators - no referral needed.

  • Support with finances
  • Getting Active
  • Hobbies and Interests
  • Connecting to Community
  • Supporting wellbeing
  • Help with Long Term Conditions

 

Free Local Groups

Knit and Natter – Bridport Library

A lively and friendly group for adults who enjoy knitting and chatting. Whether you're a beginner or experienced, it’s a great chance to meet others, share skills, or simply enjoy a good natter.

When: Every Saturday, 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm

Venue: Bridport Library, South Street, Bridport, DT6 3NY

Telephone: 01308 422778 (Limited spaces, call to reserve)

Website: Visit the Knit and Natter – Bridport Library website

 

Friends at Greenfields

A friendly weekly get-together with activities, company, and lunch provided.

When: Every Thursday, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

Venue: Greenfields, Bridport Community Hospital, Hospital Lane, Bridport, DT6 5DR

Telephone: Contact Lyn Goward on 01308 488272

 

Community Coffee Morning – St. Swithun’s Church

Enjoy free coffee, cakes, and snacks in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Includes a raffle supporting a local charity. Everyone is welcome – no booking required.

When: First Thursday of every month, 9:30 am to 11:00 am

Venue: St. Swithun’s Church, Allington, Bridport, DT6 5DU

 

Chapel in the Garden – Coffee & Bookshop

A warm and welcoming space offering coffee, cake, good company, and access to a fabulous second-hand bookshop. Free (donations welcome).

When: Every Wednesday and Saturday, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Venue: 49 East Street, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 3JX

Telephone: General enquiries – 07566 751752

 

Bridport United Church – Coffee Morning

Drop-in with tea, coffee, and biscuits in a welcoming space

When: Every Wednesday and Saturday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Venue: Bridport United Church, East Street, Bridport, DT6 3LJ

Bridport United Church – Friendly Club

Crafts, games, tea, and informal social time

When: Third Thursday of each month, 2:00 pm – 4:30 pm

Venue: Bridport United Church, East Street, Bridport, DT6 3LJ

Bridport United Church – Lunch Club

A communal lunch with friendly company

When: Fourth Wednesday of each month (except January), 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm

Venue: Bridport United Church, East Street, Bridport, DT6 3LJ

 

Further Information

While we hope you may find something here that supports you, please note that these resources are not all officially endorsed by the NHS. We endeavour to ensure that all listings are accurate and up to date, but please be aware that we cannot guarantee this at all times.

If you are a local service, organisation or group that would like to be included in this guide, please contact us via secure online form or call the PCN Admin Team on 01308 801810 and tell us about your support offering.

Last updated: July 2025.

Social Prescribing Resource Sheet:
Stroke and Brain Injury

 

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Stroke and Brain Injury

This resource sheet includes a selection of services, tools, and organisations that others have found helpful.

If you require further support in accessing these, or other services, please contact the Social Prescribing Team on 01308 428943 or contact us via our online form.

stroke

 

Social Prescribing is available at your GP Surgery

If you live in Bridport, Beaminster, Lyme Regis or the wider West Dorset area, you can speak directly with our Social Prescribers and Care Coordinators - no referral needed.

  • Support with finances
  • Getting Active
  • Hobbies and Interests
  • Connecting to Community
  • Supporting wellbeing
  • Help with Long Term Conditions

 

Dorset Stroke and Neuro Service (North/West)

The Dorset Stroke and Neuro service provides community specialist stroke and neuro rehabilitation and disability management. This may include advice, support, signposting, intensive rehabilitation, non-intensive specialist rehabilitation, or complex management.

The service is delivered by a multi-disciplinary team with knowledge, skills, and experience in managing stroke and neurological conditions, which may include:

  • Therapy provision
  • Return to work support
  • Information giving/advice regarding your condition
  • Services or social issues such as benefits or housing
  • Carer support
  • Psychological support
  • Navigation of community groups
  • Stroke prevention and education

There is no time limit for involvement with the service and you can access the service at any time during your recovery. All six-month stroke reviews are completed virtually via video call or telephone.

Email: Email Dorset Stroke and Neuro Service (North/West). You can also ask your GP to refer you.

Website: Visit the Dorset Stroke and Neuro Service (North/West) website

LEGS - Local Exercise Groups for Stroke and Neuro Conditions

Local Exercise Groups for Stroke and Neuro Conditions provides support via:

Telephone: 07471 210 359

Email: Email LEGS - Local Exercise Groups for Stroke and Neuro Conditions

Website: Visit the LEGS - Local Exercise Groups for Stroke and Neuro Conditions website

Different Strokes

This is a stroke charity helping younger stroke survivors.

Website: Visit the Different Strokes website

The Stroke Club

This is a friendly group that welcomes new members and offers chat, coffee, cake, an art class once a month, outings, visits, speakers, and games.

Venue: The Stroke Club is based in Bridport and meets weekly on Wednesday from 10am-12pm at Vernons Court, Normandy Way, Bridport DT6 3QF.

Telephone: 01308 456100 or 01308 425435

Useful Links

Stroke Association

Website: Visit the Stroke Association website

Different Strokes

Helping younger stroke survivors.

Website: Visit the Different Strokes website

 

Further Information

While we hope you may find something here that supports you, please note that these resources are not all officially endorsed by the NHS. We endeavour to ensure that all listings are accurate and up to date, but please be aware that we cannot guarantee this at all times.

If you are a local service, organisation or group that would like to be included in this guide, please contact us via secure online form or call the PCN Admin Team on 01308 801810 and tell us about your support offering.

Last updated: July 2025.

Social Prescribing Resource Sheet:
Transport & Community Travel

 

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Transport & Community Travel

This resource sheet includes a selection of local transport options and community travel schemes to help you get to appointments and activities.

If you require further support in accessing these, or other services, please contact the Social Prescribing Team on 01308 428943 or contact us via our online form.

network

 

Social Prescribing is available at your GP Surgery

If you live in Bridport, Beaminster, Lyme Regis or the wider West Dorset area, you can speak directly with our Social Prescribers and Care Coordinators - no referral needed.

  • Support with finances
  • Getting Active
  • Hobbies and Interests
  • Connecting to Community
  • Supporting wellbeing
  • Help with Long Term Conditions

 

Dorset Community Transport Directory

Use the Dorset Community Transport Directory to find local community transport schemes (e.g. Good Neighbours, Ring & Ride, PlusBus, and country car schemes).

Directory: Visit the Dorset Community Transport Directory website

Travel Devon (for nearby East Devon/Axminster area)

Find travel information and community transport options in Devon, including services close to Axminster and East Devon.

Website: Visit the Travel Devon (for nearby East Devon/Axminster area) website

NHS Patient Travel (Hospital Appointments)

For hospital appointments only. Eligibility is assessed by the Patient Transport Advice Centre.

Phone: 01278 727457

Info: Visit the NHS Patient Travel (Hospital Appointments) website

Local Private Taxi Services — Bridport area

Local Private Taxi Services — Lyme Regis, Charmouth & Axminster

Lyme Regis

Axminster

Charmouth

Tip: Some community schemes ask for a small mileage-based contribution (often around 45p per mile). Check availability in your area.

Further Information

While we hope you may find something here that supports you, please note that these resources are not all officially endorsed by the NHS. We endeavour to ensure that all listings are accurate and up to date, but please be aware that we cannot guarantee this at all times.

If you are a local service, organisation or group that would like to be included in this guide, please contact us via secure online form or call the PCN Admin Team on 01308 801810 and tell us about your support offering.

Last updated: August 2025.

Social Prescribing Resource Sheet:
Veteran Support

 

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Veteran Support

This resource sheet includes a selection of services, tools, and organisations that others have found helpful.

We’re here to support Veterans, serving personnel and their families in Dorset. This resource sheet groups key services, organisations, and contacts into logical sections for easy reference.

If you require further support in accessing these, or other services, please contact the Social Prescribing Team on 01308 428943 or contact us via our online form.

homeless-health

Social Prescribing is available at your GP Surgery

If you live in Bridport, Beaminster, Lyme Regis or the wider West Dorset area, you can speak directly with our Social Prescribers and Care Coordinators - no referral needed.

  • Support with finances
  • Getting Active
  • Hobbies and Interests
  • Connecting to Community
  • Supporting wellbeing
  • Help with Long Term Conditions

 

Strategic & Coordination Support

Armed Forces Covenant (Dorset Council)

Two-year MoD-funded programme coordinating local AFC projects.

Contact: Nick Harper, AFC Programme Coordinator – Email Armed Forces Covenant (Dorset Council)

Armed Forces Champion (DWP, Weymouth)

Statutory benefits advice & guidance for the Armed Forces community.

Contact: Andrew Kerr – Email Armed Forces Champion (DWP, Weymouth)

Healthcare & Wellbeing

Dorset Healthcare Community Veterans Health & Wellbeing Team

Single point of access for health & social care coordination — includes housing & welfare needs.

Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS)

Independent medical welfare charity for serving & ex-serving personnel.

UH Dorset Hospitals NHS FT – Armed Forces Community Advocate

Inpatient support for veterans/families: care navigation & discharge planning.

Contact: Rob Hornby – Email UH Dorset Hospitals NHS FT – Armed Forces Community Advocate

Welfare & Advice Centres

Unit & Garrison Welfare Officers (Bovington, Blandford Camp)

Primary welfare support for serving personnel & their families.

Army Welfare Service (AWS, MoD Corsham)

Professional welfare services to enhance operational effectiveness.

HIVE Information Centres (Bovington & Blandford)

Free local info on benefits, housing, schools, and community groups.

Website: Visit the HIVE Information Centres (Bovington & Blandford) website

Citizens Advice

Confidential advice on legal, debt, housing & consumer issues. Local offices across Dorset.

Website: Visit the Citizens Advice website

Mental Health & Wellbeing Charities

SSAFA – The Armed Forces Charity

Welfare advisors, financial assistance & casework (offices in Weymouth & Poole + outreach).

Website: Visit the SSAFA – The Armed Forces Charity website

The Royal British Legion (TRBL)

Financial, social & emotional support; pension & benefit advice. Branches in Blandford, Dorchester, Poole, Shaftesbury, Sherborne, Sturminster & Wimborne.

Website: Visit the The Royal British Legion (TRBL) website

Combat Stress

Specialist mental health support for veterans.

  • 24-hour Helpline: 0800 138 1619
  • Referral: via Dorset Healthcare Veterans Team

We Are With You

Free support for drug, alcohol & mental health challenges.

Employment & Transition

Forces Families Jobs Platform

Employment & training portal for military spouses & partners.

Website: Visit the Forces Families Jobs Platform website

Future for Heroes

Transition support when leaving service (based at Bovington Garrison).

Defence Transition Services (Veterans UK)

Tailored guidance on benefits, healthcare & charities.

Housing & Homeless Support

Helping Homeless Veterans UK (Poole)

Temporary accommodation & the ‘Veterans Build Project’.

Haig Housing Trust (Wimborne)

Charitable rented, adapted housing for veterans in need.

Website: Visit the Haig Housing Trust (Wimborne) website

Alabaré Homes for Veterans

Supported housing in Dorchester & Weymouth.

Social & Community Groups

Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Clubs

Free social meet-ups over breakfast. Locations: Blandford, Sherborne, Christchurch, Weymouth & Portland.

Website: Visit the Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Clubs website

Weymouth Veterans Hub

Café, community allotment, gym & drop-in sessions.

Website: Visit the Weymouth Veterans Hub website

Service Dogs UK (South West Hub)

PTSD assistance dogs for veterans & emergency responders.

Website: Visit the Service Dogs UK (South West Hub) website

Heroes Haven (Swanage)

Affordable holiday lodge for injured/disabled veterans & families.

Website: Visit the Heroes Haven (Swanage) website

8. Financial Advice & Benefits

Forces Money Plan (Hants & Dorset)

Free, confidential financial guidance.

Website: Visit the Forces Money Plan (Hants & Dorset) website

Veterans Welfare Service (VWS)

Professional advice on pensions, CTP & welfare schemes.

Website: Visit the Veterans Welfare Service (VWS) website

Veterans Advisory & Pensions Committee (Dorset)

Local representation on veterans’ issues.

Website: Visit the Veterans Advisory & Pensions Committee (Dorset) website

 

Further Information

While we hope you may find something here that supports you, please note that these resources are not all officially endorsed by the NHS. We endeavour to ensure that all listings are accurate and up to date, but please be aware that we cannot guarantee this at all times.

If you are a local service, organisation or group that would like to be included in this guide, please contact us via secure online form or call the PCN Admin Team on 01308 801810 and tell us about your support offering.

Last updated: August 2025.

Social Prescribing Resource Sheet:
Weight Management

 

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Weight Management

This resource sheet includes a selection of services, tools, and organisations that others have found helpful. We have several free or low cost services to help you lose weight.

If you require further support in accessing these, or other services, please contact the Social Prescribing Team on 01308 428943 or contact us via our online form.

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Social Prescribing is available at your GP Surgery

If you live in Bridport, Beaminster, Lyme Regis or the wider West Dorset area, you can speak directly with our Social Prescribers and Care Coordinators - no referral needed.

  • Support with finances
  • Getting Active
  • Hobbies and Interests
  • Connecting to Community
  • Supporting wellbeing
  • Help with Long Term Conditions

 

Health Coaching

Coaching sessions (1:1, face to face or on the phone) are open to any patient who is wanting to make changes to their lifestyle and could be someone simply feeling “stuck” and unsatisfied by their life at present. You must be prepared to make changes and ideally be open to exploring new strategies to try. Health Coaches can help with goal setting and motivation.

Referral and more info via Social Prescribing at your GP surgery: Tel: 01308 428943.

Live Well Dorset

Live Well Dorset offers support, information and tools to help you live a healthier life. They can also help with stopping smoking, reducing alcohol and getting more active. You may be eligible for a free kick-start voucher to Second Nature or Slimming World.

Telephone: 01305 233105. (Mon – Fri 9.00-18.30)

Website: Visit the this organisation website

NHS Fitness App

Free to download, the NHS fitness apps will help you make better choices, keep you motivated and record your achievements.

NHS Healthier Families Website

The NHS healthier families website is full of ideas, hints and tips to help you make better food choices for all the family.

Website: Visit the this organisation website

 

Moving More

Exercise on Prescription

Bridport Leisure Centre, Leisure East Devon (Axminster and Seaton Leisure Centres) and Dorchester 1610 all offer a reduced rate of subscription when you are referred by a Healthcare Professional so you can try out some different classes and the gym for 12 weeks at a reduced cost.

  • Bridport: Pick up a form from the centre and follow the instructions to complete.
  • Axminster: You will need a referral from the GP surgery – Social Prescribing can do this for you.
  • Dorchester: Contact Social Prescribing for more information.

Health Walks

Free, short and regular guided walks for all abilities, especially those who would like to get more active. Several options in West Dorset.

Website for times and dates: Visit the Health Walks website

Social Prescribing (Physical Activity)

The social prescribing team has information on a wide range of physical activity opportunities in West Dorset.

Contact us: 01308 428943 or Email Social Prescribing (Physical Activity) and we can try and find something that you’ll enjoy.

 

NHS Digital Weight Management Programme

A supported 12-week online behavioural and lifestyle programme for those living with obesity who also have a diagnosis of diabetes and/or high blood pressure.

For more information: Visit the this organisation website

 

Podcasts, TV and Radio

There are lots of podcasts and programmes that give information about eating healthily. One of our favourites is the late Dr Michael Moseley’s series ‘Just One Thing’. It’s not just for weight loss but discusses a range of things we can do to improve our health and wellbeing and each episode is only 15 minutes long.

 

A note on Weight Loss Injections (weygovy, mounjaro)

Your GP cannot prescribe weight loss injections. At the moment, they are only available on the NHS via specialist weight loss services which also focus on diet, nutrition and increasing physical activity. There are strict criteria for referral to these services and receiving injectables (At least one weight-related health problem and a BMI of at least 35). You also need to have followed a weight loss programme in the community for 2 years. If you feel you fit this criteria please speak with your GP regarding next steps. There are several private providers of these medications but we can’t recommend or advise on these.

 

Further Information

While we hope you may find something here that supports you, please note that these resources are not all officially endorsed by the NHS. We endeavour to ensure that all listings are accurate and up to date, but please be aware that we cannot guarantee this at all times.

If you are a local service, organisation or group that would like to be included in this guide, please contact us via secure online form or call the PCN Admin Team on 01308 801810 and tell us about your support offering.

Last updated: July 2025.