M&S Blandford Forum

The Vale Family Hub started as the Vale Pantry back in 2020. Working with the most disadvantaged families, providing a wide range of affordable food was simply where work started. Our real mission has always been to uncover the underlying issues behind food poverty and work to heal each household find the right help and support and get them to a better place in life. In 2023, we took the bold decision to expand, find larger premises, and operate a Family Hub in order to provide a wider range of hands-on services. In March 2025, our Vale Family Hub opened. It encompasses our Pantry, but also offers soft play, a Cafe, and the space to sit down with families and really help in so many ways. We now offer over 30 activities and sources of help from Debt & Welfare, Early Help, Parenting Support, Toddler Play Activities, SEND Support, Domestic Abuse Support, Substance Misuse, Budgeting, Cookery Education and so much more. The Hub is a happy thriving, warm and welcoming space where people come together, problems can be solved, help is always at hand. Open 6 days a week.

We are a charity set up to improve and enhance the school community (children, parents, carers) by carrying out fund raising activities throughout the academic year to help with additional equipment and resources. We are looking to help our families with emergency food packages in times of need.

Nourish Community Larder and Foodbank provides support to those living in Blandford and everyone living within the postcode area of DT11. Nourish is about much more than just food – we also provide practical, relational and spiritual support. Our relaxed café area creates a safe space to meet new people, enjoy free hot drinks and snacks, and chat with other agencies for advice and support. Our dedicated CMA team are also based at Nourish to provide free debt advice and budget support – find out more below.