A SHERBORNE scheme is marking 30 years of helping people connect in the community.

Initially set up to offer a supported meeting place for older people, Sherborne Connect now enhances the wellbeing of dozens of individuals aged between 18 and 100.

Previously known as The Shielings, it was opened on July 29, 1993, by Mrs Pat Hymers, the chair of Dorset Council.

The service became known as Sherborne Connect in 2015, when it changed from supporting purely older people to catering for the needs of anyone over the age of 18 with an assessed need.

Now, between 9am and 4pm from Monday to Friday, the converted Victorian house in The Avenue is abuzz with people enjoying cooking, quizzes and crosswords, arts and crafts and reminiscence sessions to promote mental stimulation.

Armchair exercise, skittles and boules are also popular, as are music and singing, with entertainers regularly playing for the clients.

Sherborne Connect also provides families and carers with invaluable respite care and the peace of mind their loved ones are being expertly supported.

Anne Towler, 86, came to Sherborne Connect purely to access the assisted bathing service and discovered company and companionship.

“I started coming in January 2022, because after breaking my hips I wasn’t able to get into my bath and had been relying on strip washes for over two years,” she said.

“The first time I was lowered into the special ARJO hydrotherapy bath they have here it felt like heaven.

“I’ve been coming weekly ever since for a bath and I also stay on for cooking, arts and crafts, music, singing and board games. I really enjoy it.”

Jackie Baker worked for the service as a care assistant, from the day it opened in 1993 until retiring at the age of 60. She then returned as a volunteer until 2020.

She said: “It’s so valuable for people who find it difficult to get out and about themselves. They can be picked up by our transport, enjoy the day with us and make friends – and this in turn gives valuable respite to their families and carers.

“I loved working there.”

Manager Richard Calvert came to the centre for what he thought would be an interim job – 13 years ago – and also found his ‘perfect job’.

He said: “Sherborne Connect is a hub of caring activity and support. It’s homely, not at all clinical and everything happens at a pace tailored to the individual’s need.

“Care Dorset took over on October 3, 2022 placing the needs for the residents in the in the Dorset Council area at the heart of care services we offer.

“You only have to observe one of our sessions to see how it enriches lives and in some cases can be life-changing for people and their families.

“Myself and my colleagues also provide informal support to carers through signposting and advice.

“I know the whole team feels privileged to be part of Sherborne Connect.”