Leaky warehouse transformed into “much-needed” family hub after £300,000 investment

A space for people of all ages, from parents seeking advice to old people looking for companionship, is opening in North Dorset today

Author: Jamie GuerraPublished 3rd Mar 2025

From today, families in North Dorset will benefit from a brand-new space to socialise, seek advice and a place for children to play.

After 18 months and more than £300,000 of investment, The Vale Family Hub in Sturminster Newton has officially opened.

The building transformed from a derelict, leaky warehouse to a “bright and welcoming environment” for local families.

Family Hub Lead, Cllr Carole Jones said: “I am so proud of our army of volunteers who have come together to make this happen, we couldn’t be more excited to welcome the families into our brilliant new space.”

The Vale Family Hub will offer all the features of a family hub while retaining the crucial food provision service that the Vale Pantry offered.

Services include midwifery, health visiting, financial advice, parenting classes, learn and play sessions, and much more.

The ‘army of volunteers’ also have ambitious plans do much more such as offer homework clubs and social spaces aimed at promoting community and conquering loneliness.

These sites aim to be non-judgmental spaces that foster connections among families and between parents going through the same challenges as well as strengthening the bond of the community.

Cllr Clare Sutton said: “The opening of The Vale Family Hub is a fantastic milestone in ensuring families have easy access to the support they need, exactly when they need it.

“I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making this vision a reality.”

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