Connecting Dorset

The Connecting Dorset Project started in May 2007 after a 2-year development process led by the local partners. This innovative project aims to connect all parish clerks and 120 village halls in Dorset to broadband to enable e-delivery of services, and also provide access to the Internet for rural communities.

EverybodyOnline is working with Dorset Community Action and the Dorset Association of Parish and Town Councils to deliver the project, which is supported by Dorset Rural Renaissance, BT, Capacity Builders, Dorset County Council, and Magna Housing Association.

Dorset is a rural county with beautiful coastline and countryside, but many of its rural communities are isolated, with little public transport and local services such as Post Offices, shops and libraries having an uncertain future. There are also a large number of older and retired people, and families on low incomes.

This project will enable local people to access Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and the Internet within their communities and offer volunteering opportunities, especially for young people, to help them gain training, communication and ICT skills that strengthen education and employment prospects.