Charity group the Friends of Victoria Hospital Wimborne is celebrating a major milestone after clocking up 90 years supporting hospital patients and staff, as well as the wider east Dorset community.

Originally founded in 1887 as a cottage hospital, when it was funded by the generosity of local residents and philanthropists, Victoria Hospital – now run by Dorset HealthCare ­– is a key part of NHS services in Dorset, providing essential healthcare for thousands of people each year.

The Friends group was established in 1935 to generate extra funds and enhance what could be offered at the Victoria Road site. Over the past 25 years alone, the group has funded around 80% of the hospital’s capital build projects, investing more than £8.7 million to enhance and expand its facilities. This vital support has helped develop a wide range of services, including operating theatres, day surgery, endoscopy, physiotherapy and state-of-the-art X-ray facilities.

Most recently, the Friends bought the one-acre site of the former Wimborne Town FC ground next to the hospital. This important acquisition will allow for a bigger car park – due to open next year – and future expansion, as the need for local healthcare provision continues to grow.

Anne Salter, Chair of the Friends of Victoria Hospital Wimborne, said:

“We work in support of and collaboration with the hospital, and we can reach those parts NHS budgets cannot meet. The Friends have always been about people — volunteers, donors, staff, and patients — working together to make a real difference.”

To celebrate its landmark anniversary, the Friends group has produced a short film showcasing its on-going partnership with the NHS and Victoria Hospital. The film offers a fascinating insight into how this collaboration continues to deliver high-quality care for local people — today and into the future.

Watch the film at: Vimeo – Friends of Victoria Hospital Wimborne 90th Anniversary

Alex Lister, service director for integrated community services at Dorset HealthCare, said:

“Victoria Hospital is a vital part of our community-based services and provides the highest standards of healthcare to our patients. The hospital remains very much at the heart of the community, and the support provided by local people and the Friends of Victoria Hospital Wimborne is invaluable.”