A conference and networking event that will bring together anyone who is passionate about their community from across Dorset is being held in Corfe Mullen.

The ‘Growing Hope in Our Communities’ event at St Nicholas Church will include talks and workshops, opportunities to network with other like-minded people and share ideas and best practice.

It is a collaboration between the ‘Growing Compassionate Communities’ charity and Dorset’s Douch Family Funeral Directors.

Speakers include Sarah Rampton from ‘In Jolly Good Company’, Anthony Webber who is to launch a lanyard scheme for those living with a hidden illness, and Joanna Keats, a community advisor who will talk about fuel poverty.

The free event will include lunch and Dame Annette Brooke will be opening proceedings that begin at 10am on Saturday 7 March.

Emma Regan from Douch Family Funeral Directors said: ‘This is a networking event for everyone and anyone who is passionate about their community and who wants to combat isolation.

‘If you are a carer, already working in your community, working with marginalised groups or just interested in how you can get involved then please come along.

‘We have three fantastic workshops discussing nutrition, keeping active and an exciting new project aimed at making hidden disabilities visible in the community.’

Peter Jones, chairman of Growing Compassionate Communities, added: ‘There are refreshments on arrival and a free, tasty lunch provided by the Growing Compassionate Communities charity.

‘We invite you to bring any literature or examples of the work you do in your communities to the event to add to our sharing table.’

There is a Facebook page: www.facebook.com/events/1206774206175765/

Delegates can register through www.gccconference.eventbrite.com