The care provided by Dorset to people who need support after a hospital stay – or help to avoid hospital altogether – is amongst the most successful in England, it was announced today (Wednesday).
Some 92% of people who use Care Dorset’s Reablement service end their period of support needing no increase in care – 15% better than the national average.
It even outranks the highest-performing regional average of 86% across the South West.
Care Dorset is an independent social care provider owned by Dorset Council.
Managing director Chris Best said: “Reablement serves everyone. Hospitals are not left caring for people who shouldn’t be there, and the people who we support regain their independence and confidence.
“I’ve always known Care Dorset’s Reablement colleagues are amongst the hardest-working people in the county and with these results we’re seeing the fruits of that labour.”
Thousands of hours
Reablement offers a package of care for a limited time, allowing people to recover lost skills and fitness in a supported environment.
It is typically around six weeks long, and offered after a long period of hospitalisation or illness.
It can be offered in a live-in service or in people’s own homes, where it is called ‘Community Reablement.’
In the three months to February 2026, the Community Reablement team delivered over 12,000 hours of support to the county.
During the same period, 92% of individuals ended their Reablement with no increase to their package of care.
