Residents in Wimborne, Ferndown and Verwood are to be able to attend drop-in sessions this month to discuss the future of adult social care in Dorset.

Councillors and senior leaders want residents to contribute their thoughts on how the services could look over the next five to 10 years, with four strategies put forward to start the conversation.

Residents who use services and their families, those employed in care services, and members of the public with an interest, are encouraged to read the strategies and join the conversation so plans can be formulated with insightful input.

Starting on 19 September and running through October, the events comprise workshops with interactive discussions and drop in sessions for those preferring a shorter, informal conversation about their needs and aspirations and the council’s proposals.

The council area has more than the national average of over 65 year olds and over 85 year olds and around 40 per cent of the council’s budget, £137million, is spent providing information, care and support to older people and residents with physical and learning disabilities.

Cllr Peter Wharf, portfolio holder for Adult Social Care and Health, said: “Our strategies are the start of the conversation, not the final word. They present our current view of future needs and our residents, along with providers and partners, are integral in completing the picture of our future plans for adult social care.

“Please take a look at the strategies and think about them, get involved in discussions and help us shape them. We are listening. It’s really important the future of these services supports residents across the council area for the next five to 10 years.”

Cllr Jane Somper, cabinet lead for health, said: “These strategies are our view on the coming challenges and opportunities in social care and some of the ways that we want to improve things. ​Having a voice in how these services will operate is so important and we hope you can join us at the sessions that matter to you.”

Workshop and drop in session dates and places:

Monday 19 September, 9am – 12noon, Streetlight Project, Stone Lane, Wimborne BH21 1HB.

Friday 21 October, 1.30 – 4.30pm, Verwood Hub Brock Way, Verwood BH31 7QE.

Wednesday 26 October 1.30 – 5pm, The Barrington Centre, Pennys Walk, Ferndown BH22 9TH

There are also sessions in Blandford St Mary, Dorchester, Sherborne, Weymouth, Shaftesbury, Wareham, Bridport, Sturminster Newton, Portland, Gillingham, Lyme Regis and Swanage.