Families across Dorset will soon benefit from improved support services after Dorset Council secured £2.3 million in funding from the Department for Education.
The investment, spread over the next three years, will support the expansion of family hubs, helping parents and carers access advice and services from pregnancy to age 19, or 25 for young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
Three new family hubs are due to open in Blandford, Portland Hospital and Weymouth Central in 2026, increasing local access to support across the county.
Eight existing hubs in Bridport, Dorchester, Ferndown, Swanage, Wareham, Littlemoor, Sturminster Newton and Wimborne will continue operating, with expanded programmes for children aged three to four.
All locations will be rebranded as Best Start Family Hubs, reflecting a focus on early years and bringing services together under one roof.
The hubs offer families access to health services, parenting advice and community support, with the new funding strengthening links with health partners and voluntary organisations.
Councillor Clare Sutton, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills, said the funding will make it easier for families to find help closer to home and at the right time.
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