Transforming how Dorset residents access support
Community Action Network’s Access to Community Support and Services (ACSS) project, funded by NHS Dorset, has won a national award for its innovative approach to improving access to local services. The ACSS project was named the winner of the iStandUK Awards as part of the Innovation Awards 2024/25, which celebrates excellence in data sharing and digital innovation across public services.
The ACSS project adopts Open Referral UK (ORUK) data standards, endorsed by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. By creating a shared dataset of over 1,400 local services, the project has empowered more than 440 frontline workers with a user-friendly Service Finder tool, helping them signpost residents to the right support at the right time.
The tool’s mapping features and time-of-day filters allow users to refine searches based on location, opening hours, and personal preferences — ensuring that residents can easily find relevant support, even if they don’t drive or have complex needs.
One frontline worker said, “This tool has been invaluable, especially for finding services close to someone who doesn’t drive. The map feature is brilliant, and the links to organisation details make it even easier to connect people to the support they need.”
Winning this award further highlights CAN’s role as a national leader in digital innovation for the voluntary and community sector. The success of the ACSS project has already secured CAN a seat on the Cross-Government Steering Group, led by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, where it will help shape future national strategies for service accessibility.
Kelly Hewitt, ACSS Project Manager at CAN, said: “We are incredibly proud to have won this award, which is a testament to the hard work, creativity, and collaboration of everyone involved. We thank NHS Dorset, Digital Coproduction, and the many local groups and charities who have supported and shaped this project. Their insight and passion have been invaluable, and this recognition highlights the power of working together to improve access to vital services across Dorset.”
CAN plans to contribute data from the ACSS project to the new public-facing website for Access Wellbeing, a key part of NHS Dorset’s mental health transformation programme. This platform will provide residents with user-friendly tools to navigate community services and support. CAN will also continue developing partnerships to expand the project’s reach, ensuring even more people across Dorset can benefit.
