by Karen Loftus, CAN Chief Executive

When I say our members are at the heart of everything we do, what does that mean? It means we are from and part of the voluntary sector across the county of Dorset.

It means we are accountable to local charities and community groups, as they are our board of trustees, who agree on our strategic plan and scrutinise our work.

It means we listen to our members, yes, we really do. From our annual Members Survey, we know that 94% of CAN members would recommend us, and the vast majority find our services ‘invaluable or very useful’.  One member told us, “Thank you CAN, for championing the voluntary sector locally. Your contribution is invaluable, and we are better off having an organisation like yours from which we can connect and draw expertise. Thank you!’

From our members’ input, we’re making changes to what we do and how we do it. With thanks to everyone who took the time to respond, here’s what you said and what you can expect as a result.