A call is going out for the community to help a charity as it looks to expand its services in west Dorset.

Age UK Dorchester is an independent charity which works to enable older people across rural Dorset to maintain physical and mental wellbeing in later life.

It provides direct services to enable older people to remain independent and enjoy life, organises activities to create opportunities for an enriched social life, and by working with older people to campaign and have their voices heard.

The charity has been part of the local community helping older people for more than 60 years. It employs 60 staff and is supported by more than 200 volunteers to help deliver the services and activities.

Now Age UK Dorchester wants to find bigger premises to expand its day services.

It says that so many older people have been benefitting from its day services and lunch clubs it now needs bigger premises in both Dorchester and Bridport.

An additional two venues are needed - with heating and kitchen facilities, suitable for a day-centre.

They must be able to accommodate more than 30 older people Monday to Friday.

The charity is asking if anyone can help them to help older people in the area get a hot meal, make friends and socialise.

Age UK aims to end social isolation and make Dorset a great county in which to grow older.

CEO David Thorp said: “So many older people in rural Dorset live alone with no one to talk to.

“Social contact and connecting to a community is a vital part of healthy and happy ageing.

“I want to ensure we continue to meet the needs of the older population of Dorset.

“No one should have no one”.

If you can help call Age UK Dorchester on 01305 269444 or email sfrigot@ageukdorchester.org.uk