Dorset Chamber Business Voice Forum launched in Poole

The first Dorset Chamber Business Voice Forum launched at Merley House in Poole, attracting almost 60 business leaders, chamber presidents, and stakeholders from across the county.

The forum will shape Dorset Chamber’s recently unveiled business policy statements and guide its lobbying efforts at both a regional and national level through the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

Ian Girling, chief executive of Dorset Chamber, said: "Business is a force for good that plays such an important part in society.

From left: Gareth Sherwood (Dorset Chamber), Kate Shoesmith (British Chambers of Commerce), Jon Bird (Dorset Council), Ian Girling (Dorset Chamber), Adrian Gunner (SWRAC), and Amena Matin (BCP Council). (Image: Deep South Media)

"It helps make Dorset an incredible place in which to live and work.

"Even so, the challenging and evolving political and economic landscape makes it more important than ever for Dorset to be clear about its priorities and to speak with one voice.

"That needs to be a powerful and strong voice which can lobby and drive change both locally and nationally on the issues that affect our businesses, economy and communities."

Attendees identified key priorities including taxation and regulatory reform, stronger connections between business and education, and affordable housing.

Other discussions focused on late payments, Dorset’s regional identity, and talent retention.

Speakers included BCC director of policy and insights Kate Shoesmith, Mid Dorset and North Poole MP Vikki Slade, Dorset Chamber president Gareth Sherwood, and entrepreneur Dan Ware, who chairs the BCP Growth Board.

The forum is set to convene three times a year and will refine its focus through feedback.

Mr Girling said: "Thanks go to everyone who attended and we now have a very strong platform upon which to build a forum that makes Dorset’s voice heard and champions our county and our businesses for positive change now and in the future."

Dorset Chamber is the only chamber in the county accredited to the British Chambers of Commerce.

The forum included delegates from town chambers throughout Dorset, including Bridport and West Bay, Christchurch and District, Ferndown, Gillingham, Shaftesbury, and Weymouth and Portland.

The forum supports Dorset Chamber’s broader vision of creating "a vibrant and prosperous Dorset business community that enhances the quality of life for all".