Welcome to the community and specialist dietetic service.

Dietitians are allied health professionals trained to degree level or above. All the dietitians in the department are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council.

Registered dietitians (RDs) are the only qualified health professionals that assess, diagnose and treat dietary and nutritional problems at an individual and wider public health level. They work with both healthy and sick people. Uniquely, dietitians use the most up-to-date public health and scientific research on food, health and disease which they translate into practical guidance to enable people to make appropriate lifestyle and food choices.

We are able to provide evidence based, unbiased advice and support on nutrition. Community dietitians usually see both children and adults. Dietetic assistants support registered dietitians in all aspects of the service. Dietetic assistants work under the supervision and guidance of a dietitian.

We work from clinics across Dorset, as well as providing 1-to-1 consultations in care/nursing homes and patients’ own homes. We also offer training to other health and social care staff. Our team covers Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch, Purbeck, Wimborne and East Dorset. The rest of the county is covered by the dietetic team based at Dorset County Hospital.

This service is available to children and adults, including those with special needs. If you, or your loved one, would like to access this service, please speak to your GP or other healthcare professional. You can also contact us direct for more information.

The dietetic department is committed to quality improvement. Regular audits are carried out such as record keeping. We participate in the Family & Friends Test and seek to make changes based on patient feedback.

Please speak to your GP or healthcare professional if you would like to see a dietitian.  If you meet our referral criteria they can refer you to our service.