Wareham Men's Shed saved after eviction notice error

Members of Wareham Men's Shed build structures and fix items to help their community

A workshop that helps men combat loneliness has been saved after an eviction notice was "sent in error".

Wareham Men's Shed, which is run out of The Purbeck Centre in Dorset, was handed the three-month notice by Care Dorset in April.

But following a recent meeting with Care Dorset and Dorset Council, it was confirmed that the eviction notice had been rescinded.

Chair of Wareham Men's Shed Harold Forbes said it was "great news".

The shed is part of a national network of spaces for men at risk of social exclusion.

It gives its members somewhere to do woodwork and help with practical projects in the local community, as well as offering companionship.

The group fixes and restores items, like this showcase in East Creech

Mr Forbes said the unrest had been "a very unsettling time" for everyone involved.

"A few of the guys were really very, very worried about what was going to happen, but they are now all pleased that we have managed to resolve the situation with a positive bent," he said.

He added it was "nice to be in control of our own destiny rather than have it thrust upon us".

Care Dorset, an adult care service owned by Dorset Council, confirmed the meeting with Wareham Men's Shed, saying "all attendees agreed it was a positive meeting" and that it "reiterated that notice was given in error".

"Men's shed are welcome to continue to use the space for the foreseeable future," it added.

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