The strategy  builds on people's shared vision of "a living thriving Dorset where everyone has a part to play in creating a better quality of life" and tackles major challenges now facing the county:

• Affordable, sustainable and appropriate housing

• Developing Dorset's economy

• Improved access to services, employment and leisure

• Safeguarding Dorset's environment, now and for the future

• An ageing population with a falling proportion of young people

Many organisations including the County and District Councils, other statutory bodies, business and third sector organisations have worked together on the strategy. It provides direction for the strategic plans of all partner organisation.

The community strategy is currently undergoing revision to ensure it reflects recent changes such as the economic downturn and an increased emphasis on organisations working in partnership to improve the quality of life in Dorset. The review will extend the strategy to cover the period of 2010 to 2020.

The contents of the text-only version of 'Shaping our future' have been numbered for reference purposes.  An easy read version is also available.

The full printed strategy is available from the Chief Executive's Office.

• Name: Jacqueline Hutchings
  Email: j.hutchings@dorsetcc.gov.uk
  Tel: 01305 224271 Ext. 7104271
  Fax: 01305 224839
  Full details for Jacqueline Hutchings
• Corporate Administrator
  Name: Eleanor Porteous
  Email: e.porteous@dorsetcc.gov.uk
  Tel: 01305 221246 Ext. 7101246
  Fax: 01305 224839
  Full details for Eleanor Porteous