Body Positive Dorset was founded in 1986 by a group of local people whose lives had been affected by HIV and AIDS and in reaction to the minimal understanding or support available to them in the local area. They wanted to create an environment that would offer positive support and education to those affected by the disease, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age, ethnic origin or religious belief.

Over the 20 years since then, the organisation has secured funding for a dedicated support centre, 24-hour helpline and a range of holistic and alternative therapies to help those affected. The centre also offers counselling, peer support groups, advice clinics, regular club nights, barbeques, and a lounge area for people to meet up and socialise.