From a derelict warehouse to a bright welcoming space for the families of North Dorset

Families in North Dorset will soon benefit from a brand-new space, thanks to the opening of The Vale Family Hub. 

For many years, the Vale Pantry in Sturminster Newton has been providing a vital service, offering food and other support to families who need it most. 

The opportunity arose for the Vale Pantry to move premises and become a fully-fledged family hub, allowing them to provide many more services to families in the local area. 

From a derelict, leaky warehouse, the team has worked tirelessly to transform the space into a bright and welcoming environment for local families. 

Cllr Carole Jones, Family Hub Lead and Chair of the Local Alliance Group, said, “We couldn’t be more excited to welcome the families into our brilliant new space. 

“I’m so proud of our army of volunteers who have come together to make this happen, and so grateful to the many donors who have been a part of this. 

“We know that this space will make a massive difference to families in the area, just as the beloved Vale Pantry has before.” 

The Vale Family Hub, as it’s been named, will have all the features of a family hub while retaining the crucial food provision service that the Vale Pantry offered. 

The family hubs currently open across Dorset provide much needed services to families with children from conception to 18 years old. This increases to 25 years if the child has special educational needs and disabilities. 

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

These sites are warm, non-judgmental spaces that offer valuable services while also fostering connections among families and strengthening the community. 

The Vale Family Hub is set to celebrate its opening by holding a community day on 1 March, and families are encouraged to head down and check out the new space. 

The team has ambitious plans for the space and hopes to offer many more services, including homework clubs and social spaces aimed at promoting community and conquering loneliness, all in the hope of fostering independence and improving lives. 

Cllr. Clare Sutton, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills, 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.” 

More information about the family hubs offer can be found on the Dorset Council website at www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/family-hubs.