The current shepherd’s hut was obtained as an emergency provision during COVID so that residents didn’t need to share a room. The shepherd’s hut is situated in the garden of the Dairy House, overlooking the Somerset countryside.

The shepherd’s hut has proved to be a very successful addition and is now used as a good first room for those who have been living rough for a while who might struggle with the thought of being in bricks and mortar. Many of our residents have said that the shepherd’s hut has saved their life; allowing them to join the Dairy House community while retaining some autonomy as they reorient themselves after being very isolated.

Unfortunately, the shepherd’s hut needs replacing so we are raising money to provide:

• A larger space (adhering to HMO Standards)

• Furniture for the interior

• New electrics

We recognise that the Dairy House is just the beginning for some and that the hard work continues beyond their stay with us. We also recognise the courage it takes to spend time starting to make a plan for the future, start recovery, and make new friendships.

We also know that it is a privilege to be able to have such a unique project and we have learned that working with other partners like Root Connections, SMART Recovery, Step Together, CMHT, Outreach Nurses etc. helps to start to establish a robust support network for the future.