If you want to support your local community hospital, you can do so by joining its charitable ‘Friends’ group. 

‘Friends of’ or ‘League of Friends’ groups raise considerable amounts of money each year for our hospitals, providing many amenities and facilities for patients and staff that are not always covered by NHS funding.  

These can range from toiletries and games for ward patients through to specialist equipment, room refurbishments, outdoor renovations and even vehicles. 

Notable contributions in recent years have led to the creation of a palliative care suite at Weymouth, a new-look X-ray department in Wimborne and a car park, garden area and additional rooms at Swanage. 

Funds are raised through members’ annual subscription, legacies and many different activities. For some Friends this includes running a local shop or selling refreshments at the hospital. Others hold plant, cake and car boot sales, concerts or Christmas fairs, or arrange sponsored events.  

An elected committee administers the membership, finances and activities of each Friends group. Some members also give up their spare time to help out at their hospital and become Dorset HealthCare volunteers. 

All of our Friends groups make fantastic contributions to our hospitals, and we value their support enormously.  

Click on the relevant link below to learn more about your local Friends group. They are always keen to welcome new members in any capacity, and it’s quick and easy to join. 

  • Westhaven, Portland and Weymouth hospitals (Contact Peter Rendell on 01305 782546 or 07801 064088)