Dorothy House has launched an interactive online Community Map designed to connect and support people and families living with an end-of-life diagnosis.
The community map | Image © Dorothy House
Timed to coincide with Blue Monday on Monday 19th January – often described as the ‘saddest day of the year’ – the hospice hopes the new digital resource will help turn the tide for local people facing isolation, a life-limiting diagnosis, caring responsibilities at the end of life, or anticipatory grief and bereavement.
The Community Map is accessible via the Dorothy House website and is designed to place people at the heart of care by making it easier to find information about local groups, services and events that offer companionship, wellbeing and practical help.
The user-friendly, accessible map allows anyone to search for social and support groups, events, clinics, walks in nature and services.
By bringing together hundreds of local organisations, Dorothy House describes it as a digital intervention offering care and support when people need it most and close to where they live.
Whether people are seeking support for themselves or looking for ways to help others, the charity says launching the map on Blue Monday symbolises its commitment to reducing isolation and providing care and support to more people in the community.
In 2025, Dorothy House launched its new strategy – It’s Personal – with a clear purpose to empower individuals, collaborate with community partners and deliver accessible, compassionate care for all.
Dorothy House’s Chief Executive, Wayne de Leeuw, said: “Giving control back to people, empowering them to shape their own end of life, getting back to nature to rediscover what’s set deep in our human DNA, all fits with the founding philosophy of Dorothy House.
“Now in our 50th anniversary year, by collaborating with partners and launching this Community Map, we aim to meet the growing needs of our communities.
“In the end, we are just a small yet vital part of what it takes to live well at the end of life, or after a death.”
The Community Map is free to use and open to all, in line with Dorothy House’s commitment to inclusive, compassionate care. The hospice says that by empowering individuals, working with local partners and delivering tailored support, it hopes to help build a stronger, more connected region.
Dorothy House is inviting local residents, organisations and community leaders to explore the map, share it, and help shape its future. You can view the map at www.dorothyhouse.org.uk/community-map/.
