Hello! we’re CAN

– your Community Action Network

We serve & champion Dorset’s voluntary and community sector.

Charities & groups

Training & tools to help you build and grow.

Volunteering

Sharing opportunities & promoting the value of volunteering.

Serving communities

Networks for individuals, charities & community groups.

Join CAN

We offer free membership to charities and community groups along with NHS and local authority services. Our Business Supporter membership offers private businesses the opportunity to connect with their local community.

Become a member

Latest News

Shaping Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole’s Voluntary and Community Sector

By Karen Loftus, CAN Chief Executive

21 April 2026

Choosing a legal structure – why and how?

Dorset Goes Wild started with a simple, brilliant idea: getting local families back into nature. The community response was immediate and...

7 April 2026

Coproduction only works when it’s real: Our sector makes that possible

By Sam Bingham, CAN Development Manager

30 March 2026

More News

Training and events

28

May

What is authenticity and how charities can use it

28 May, 20262:00 pm - 3:30 pmOnline

Book your free place

01

June

Developing a Budget

1 June, 202610:00 am - 12:30 pmKinson Community Centre

Create budgets and forecast cash flow.

09

June

Creative Brainstorming Drop-in

9 June, 202612:00 pm - 1:00 pmOnline

Book your free place

More Events

Community Heroes

Routes to Roots

Supporting people at their most vulnerable.

April 2026

The Filo Project

The Filo Project supports people with Dementia.

March 2026

Bournemouth & Poole Bipolar Self-Help Group

For partners and carers of people with Bipolar Disorder.

March 2026

More Community Heroes