Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: October 9, 2025

Purpose: To provide an update on the Age Friendly Communities Programme.

Content: (a)           That Dorset’s application for Age Friendly accreditation by the World Health Organisation (WHO), be endorsed.   (b)           That the integration of Age-Friendly principles into whole council strategy and planning considerations including Adult Social Care locality practice, commissioning and strategic planning, be endorsed.   (c)           That, through the Council’s OFC programme (Commissioning & Procurement & Community Partnerships Programmes), age friendly principles, be integrated into design of infrastructure, transport, housing, and public spaces.   (d)           That Dorset promotes Age Friendly Communities through local charities, businesses, faith groups, and local councils.   Reason for the decision   According to recent research, nearly one-third of Dorset’s population is aged 65 or over, significantly higher than the national average of 19%, with a median age of 52 compared to 40.5 nationally. Dorset also had the highest proportion of residents aged 85+ in the UK, and an old age dependency ratio of 537 (vs. 297 nationally), meaning there were 537 people aged 65+ for every 1,000 working-age adults.   As a result, Dorset Council faced growing financial pressures, with adult social care accounting for £159.6 million, over 38% of the 2025/26 net budget. Rising demand, particularly for complex care, combined with limited national funding, highlights the urgent need for preventative approaches. Delivering community programmes, such as Age Friendly Communities offered a strategic solution to reduce future demand, delay formal care, and improve outcomes, whilst delivering long-term sustainability and value.