Specific need
Community lifeline organisation seeks new premises and property advice around options
Location
South East
Organisation
The Silver's Workshop
Reference No.
25 637
What do they need help with?
The Silvers’ Workshop is seeking property advice to support its transition to a more secure and suitable premises. The organisation is currently based in a 1,600 sq ft Victorian workshop under a rolling tenancy with just six months’ notice. The building requires extensive roof repairs and lacks the long-term stability needed for the charity to grow and continue supporting its members effectively.
They are now exploring two potential routes forward:
The first is to work with a potential benefactor who has expressed interest in supporting the purchase of a new premises. The charity is seeking advice to help assess the viability of this opportunity, understand the purchase process, and ensure any agreement is mutually beneficial and affordable for both parties.
The second option is to secure a new leased premises in the Reading area. The charity is looking for a site of approximately 2,000–2,500 sq ft that is accessible by public transport and offers long-term security and stability. They require legal guidance to evaluate lease terms and ensure the new location can meet the organisation’s practical and strategic needs.
In both cases, The Silvers’ Workshop is looking for pro bono expertise to help navigate the complexities of property acquisition and tenure. A successful outcome will allow them to expand their membership, offer support to more community groups, and futureproof their services for years to come.
A proposed first step is an exploratory call to explore the aforementioned options.
Timeline
No fixed timeframe
About the organisation
The Silvers’ Workshop—also known as Reading Men’s Shed—is a registered charity working to tackle social isolation and loneliness, particularly among older men. The organisation has been operating for over ten years and serves members from across Reading, Wokingham, West Berkshire, Bracknell Forest, and North Hampshire.
With around 70 active members, they provide a fully equipped workshop space for wood and metalworking. The environment offers meaningful activity and social connection for men who might otherwise be isolated. Open on weekdays from 10am to 2pm, the workshop is a welcoming, productive space where members can share skills, enjoy companionship, and contribute to community projects.
By offering structure, purpose, and peer support, The Silvers’ Workshop plays a vital role in improving mental wellbeing and community resilience for its members and beyond.