Dorset COP

Dorset COP (Conference of the Parties) is Dorset’s very own opportunity for the community to have its say on the climate and ecological crises. By bringing together a wide cross section of community-based groups from across the county we aim to raise awareness of the need and desire to act locally, in a way that puts people at the heart of decisions and is socially just. This yearly event is held in different locations in Dorset each year, with 2025 planning to be held in Sturminster Newton:

2025 - Saturday 1st November

Sturminster Newton

Last year more than 100 organisations and 250 individuals came together for the second community-led COP in Bournemouth Arts University.

Since the event we have seen more climate records tumble, witnessed more global instability and, despite some encouraging initiatives, little of the required urgency from our local leaders. Nationally many areas are going backwards.

As the crises deepen it’s even clearer that communities will need to build local resilience and take action themselves. That’s our aim for this year’s COP: to help build the plans that community groups need to take throughout the coming year.

For further Information visit the Dorset Cop website 

When and where is it?

The event will take place on Saturday 1st November 2025 in Sturminster Newton from 9.30 – 17.00 (registration from 9.00)

Who is paying for it?

The organisers and supporting partners have all contributed funds and / or services of commercial value to enable the event to take place.

Attendees are also being asked for a nominal contribution to secure their places and help cover costs.

In the event surplus funds are generated they will be used to help organise follow up events.

What are the expected outcomes?

The event is being organised and structured to:

· Provide an opportunity for community-led groups to inspire each other, share experiences and build networks; ultimately creating beneficial impacts for all Dorset citizens. 

· Demonstrate the depth of community commitment to tackling the crises to spur both Councils and other stakeholders to accelerate leadership and action across their spheres of control and influence.

· Provide a forum for community-led groups to share and promote a common vision to tackling the crises through a Dorset wide declaration.