Network for Dorset newcomers
27/02/2007
In January 2007 there was a report in the Daily Mail and on the BBC about the increasing number of older people relocating to the South West.
It’s easy to see why. With world class scenery, the Jurassic Coast is a prime location along with the rural communities of Dorset. It’s very appealing as a way of life. Everything feels fresh from the abundance of local organic food to the sea air. However, when it comes to making new friends or finding where everything is, moving can feel stressful. This applies both to couples and singles in search of a better quality of life.
Annette Shaw, a journalist and PR consultant was one of the new “migrants”. She moved from Surrey to West Dorset in December 2005 and decided that the way to open the door to her new neighbours was through creating a website. In August 2006 dorsetnetwork.com was born, with the aim of helping people to settle and to introduce existing businesses to Dorset’s newest inhabitants.
“It’s proved to be very successful,” says Annette. “One lady said it was like finding a hug. Much as she wanted to be by the coast she was struggling because it takes time to meet people, to start building that shared history that cements friendship.”
A membership mix of established and new residents makes it easier to get to know the immediate community and share knowledge. For instance, David Parker, 61, is a successful businessman in Lyme Regis and the current chairman of the town’s Hotel Association. He’s the one to ask about the best printers, or most importantly, which chippie the locals use!
These days a lot of us have to carry on working and Annette’s network provides support for anyone beginning in business. Judy Hogarth, age 50, moved to Bridport from Shepherds Bush. “I used to be a nursery nurse but decided to follow a more creative path as an artist. It’s really helpful in getting known to be able to exhibit my work at networking events.”
Likewise Zandra Russell, 57, previously from Sunderland, sells aromatherapy oils at the meetings. She has also found the Dorset Network to be the nearest thing to an instant social life.
If you’d like to know more about life in Dorset – and the people who live there – log onto the website below or email Annette on contact@dorsetnetwork.com.
Image by Victoria Suter Alexander.