The Dorset Compact is a commitment to positive partnership working between the public sector and the voluntary and community sector.

The compact is a statement of best practice, drawn up by public and voluntary and community sector bodies, setting out guidelines for how they should behave towards each other in order to deliver the best services possible for local people.

The aims of the Dorset Compact are to:

• Build on the existing relationships and good practice between the public sector and the voluntary and community sectors

• Strive to maintain and improve the quality of life for individuals and communities in Dorset

• Base our relationship on trust, openness, fairness and consistency

The Dorset Compact sets out a number of shared principles, and provides specific guidance in the following areas:

• Consultation

• Funding

• Volunteering

• Support for voluntary and community sector groups (or 'infrastructure')

• Equality and diversity