It is with heavy hearts that the trustees of NOCS announce that our premises at 27 Salisbury St, Blandford will be closing due to a critical lack of funding. Unfortunately, we are no longer able to sustain the ongoing costs of the building and staffing.Our full schedule of clubs will continue until 13 May 2026, after which activities at the premises will cease.We are deeply grateful to our staff, volunteers, supporters, and members who have helped make NOCS a vibrant, supportive community. Your contributions over the years have meant more than we can express.Although the premises will close, this is not the end of NOCS. The trustees remain committed to our mission and will continue our work on a pop‑up, ad‑hoc basis, without the overheads that have become unsustainable.Please keep an eye on this page for updates on future activities and ways to stay involved.


NOCS provides support, development opportunities and fun for people with high levels of social anxiety and difficulties with social interaction, particularly due to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), such as Asperger’s, or mental health challenges.

There are very few support services available for people with these difficulties, many of whom may struggle even to leave their homes and become socially and economically isolated.

Through our games clubs, drop-in centre and volunteering opportunities, members are supported to form lasting friendships, gain confidence and develop their social and practical skills in a safe, secure and happy environment.

NOCS is fully inclusive and the presence of a wide range of gamers with shared interests helps us all to operate in a supportive community, including those with and without specific social interaction needs. It’s important to us that NOCS has a wide appeal whilst targeting particular support to those with specific social needs.

Membership is free and open to everyone from the age of 10+. Based in Blandford Forum our catchment area is Dorset. For more info about our organisation click here

What’s Available?

Skirmish Gaming Tables – but to be sure of being able to use one please book first. Don’t forget to ask about our campaigns!

Card games, board and miniature games are all still up and running and there is usually a place available at most tables.

The Quiet Room is used for RPG games during club times but can be used for any other activities at any other time.

Volunteers! We have an amazing team of volunteers so if you want to learn/try/have a game just let us know (01258 480 218) and we will do our best to set you up with one of the volunteers, Fran or Noc. (All of our volunteers have successfully completed Level 2 safeguarding training. The GM (Noc) and Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) have successfully completed Level 3 Safeguarding training.)

There’s always a warm friendly welcome for new people wanting to attend our clubs. If the thought of coming along feels daunting, let us know and we’ll do our very best to help. Sometimes coming with a family member or friend can help. Gamers looking to drop in are welcome.

Scroll down to see all of our activities and projects below: