On 24 September 2024, Deano and Kate proudly represented HealthBus at the Community Action Network (CAN) AGM. CAN, a vital resource for the charity sector across Dorset, provides advice, guidance, and support to organisations working to create thriving communities. The event brought together a range of nonprofits to celebrate collective achievements and hear from the CAN team about the impact they are having.

Deano and Kate shared HealthBus’s journey and how the charity, which provides mobile healthcare services to marginalised and homeless populations, has benefited from CAN’s support. CAN has been instrumental in helping HealthBus navigate the complexities of the charity sector. From developing policies and procedures to addressing day-to-day queries, CAN has provided expert advice that has been invaluable in allowing HealthBus to focus on its core mission—delivering healthcare to those most in need.

As Deano highlighted, starting and sustaining a charity comes with many challenges. “When you’re starting out, there’s a lot to think about—it’s easy to get lost in the details and forget why you’re doing it. CAN’s help has been invaluable,” echoed Michelle, volunteer founder of Castleman Community Larder. This sentiment resonates with many in the sector, illustrating how organisations like CAN are vital in enabling charities to thrive.

The AGM was not only a celebration of the successes CAN has helped foster but also a reminder of the collective power of collaboration and shared purpose. Through partnerships and support networks like CAN, HealthBus and other community-focused organisations can continue to grow and make a lasting impact.