Wareham workshop that helps men combat loneliness should not have been served eviction notice
“No action will be taken” in relation to the tenancy of Wareham Men’s Shed
A workshop that helps men in Wareham combat loneliness should not have been served with an eviction notice.
That's what Care Dorset have told us today. They have also apologised for the anxiety it caused.
They say more discussions will now be held with Wareham Men's Shed who operate from the Purbeck Centre, to explore their options and in the meantime they can carry on.
Chris Hockley, a member of the group, told us: “If we get kicked out of our current premises and we can't find something soon, we're going to have to close which is going to be a big blow for many of our members.”
A spokesperson for Care Dorset said: “We recognise there are discussions that need to be had with representatives from Men’s Shed and the eviction notice should not have been given when it was. Consequently, we are pausing all matters relating to the issuing of the notice.”
The workshop is part of a national network of spaces for men at risk of social exclusion and is said to give retired men “a purpose in life”.
“Some of the men that attend the workshop are quite lonely and this gives them something to do,” Mr Hockley said.
He added: “A lot of older men struggle to organise things themselves as well as stay in touch with people they know.
“The Men’s Shed makes that so much easier because we know what time we have to be there and what it’s going to be like.
“If this space is taken away from us, I'm worried I’ll lose contact with friends I’ve made over the last six years.”
Care Dorset replied: “We will be meeting with Men’s Shed, together with adult social care staff at Dorset Council, to explore the options for the future. In the meantime, Men’s Shed can be assured that no action will be taken in relation to their tenancy.
“We are sorry for the concern and anxiety that has been caused and want to assure all those involved with this project that we are committed to developing our services with local people and community groups.”
The Wareham Men’s Shed has benefitted the wider community including local schools, churches, charities and councils.
Since its inception, the group of 30 men have built viewing platforms for RSPB Arne, created a 14ft totem pole from a pine tree and a climbing wall for reception children as well as restored a clay mining trolley on a nearby roundabout.
Mr Hockley added: “It's much more than just going there and making things, it’s also about the sense of community it gives us. Once you retire you feel a bit lost so I feel the workshop is invaluable and a worthwhile thing to do.”