The pandemic required swift action to protect the most vulnerable members of society and help those most seriously affected – this was time-sensitive to the maximum degree. The challenge was initially how to identify those individuals who were most at risk (particularly those who may not be immediately obvious through other processes), triage those approaching Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council for help and determine what levels of assistance were available. This undertaking by a dedicated and upskilled project team of officers from across the Council, many seconded from totally unrelated roles, led to the Together We Can programme

Together We Can is an innovation pathway led by BCP Council, working in close partnership with public, private and voluntary sector organisations as well as community groups and residents who have offered to help and support to the vulnerable people in the conurbation during the pandemic.

What are the service user benefits?

  • Protects the area’s most vulnerable residents

  • Supports those who have identified themselves as being in food crisis during the pandemic

  • Helps vulnerable people (individuals or households) who are isolating and who are without family or friends nearby

  • Provides advice for those who are self-isolating but who have support networks or who are well but worried

How is this being implemented in Dorset

  • A case study summarising BCP Council’s experience with implementing the Together We Can programme is available here.