In the wake of the devastating fire at Dairy Court, the people of Andover have come together in a remarkable display of community spirit, offering vital support to the families affected.
Many residents have been left unable to return to their homes, and while the physical damage is still being assessed, the emotional and practical toll is already significant. Yet in the face of tragedy, local people, organisations, and charities have mobilised swiftly to help those in need.
Test Valley Borough Council confirmed it is working closely with Sovereign Housing to ensure every affected resident receives the support they need. A welfare centre has been opened at the council offices in Andover, offering temporary accommodation and wider practical assistance to those displaced by the fire.
The council issued a statement, acknowledging the scale of support from the community:
“Many of you will have seen news of the fire at Dairy Court flats yesterday. This is utterly tragic for everyone involved, and we are working with all our partners, local organisations and communities to support those affected. We have been overwhelmed by the level of community support.”
Numerous Facebook support groups have been set up to coordinate the donation of essential items, including clothing, toiletries, baby supplies, and children’s essentials. Residents across the town have been dropping off food, nappies, dummies, bottles, and clothing for all ages—responding quickly to calls for help.
Among the standout efforts is Andover Community Engage (ACE), based on Bridge Street, who will open their lounge space to affected residents from 10.30am, allowing people to collect what they need in a calm, supportive environment. ACE has called for further donations of children’s clothes (ages 2–7), shoes, adult underwear, and baby items such as size 5, 6 and 7 nappies, dummies, and bottles with older teats. And huge thanks to Andover Scope and Little Loop Clothing for their amazing donations this morning to ACE.
Andover Community Church have also been offering vital help to families affected by the fire this evening. Their team has been providing compassionate support on the ground and are working closely with other agencies to coordinate the ongoing response. The church will continue to assist residents in the coming days and, once they have a clearer picture of specific needs, they will share updates on their Facebook page. The town is rightly proud of their efforts and the incredible sense of togetherness they represent.
Purple Oak Support is also offering refuge, opening The Activity Hall at The Wellington Centre from 9.30am–4.30pm as a safe base for anyone affected. Free hot and cold drinks are available, and their Family Support Coordinator, Lindsey Swatton, will be on hand to offer advice on temporary housing and benefit support.
Community recognition has also been extended to Andover Community Church, who opened their doors immediately after the incident, providing a warm, safe space for those in crisis. They, along with British Red Cross, Andover Community Engage, and Alpha Cars—who generously provided free transport for families—have been instrumental in the initial response.
As recovery efforts continue, Test Valley Borough Council, Sovereign, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, and Hampshire County Council have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting every resident of Dairy Court in the days ahead.
The community’s response has not only eased the burden for those directly impacted but has shown, once again, the strength and kindness that lies at the heart of Andover.