Good eggs in Dorset are needed to save hundreds of ex-commercial chickens from slaughter by giving them loving homes.
The appeal from the British Hen Welfare Trust (BHWT) comes after 400 hens were set to be rehomed late last month at a rehoming event in Beaminster.
For the last 18 months, these hens have been cooped up, tirelessly laying eggs for the supermarkets but were facing slaughter because they have ‘passed their prime egg-laying age’.
But kind-hearted Dorset folk are planning to give these intelligent, affectionate and quirky creatures a happy retirement.

BHWT co-ordinator Richard Caile said: “People are often surprised by how affectionate, quirky and companionable hens can be. They will follow you around the garden, hop on your knee, and they soon learn their names. They’re brilliant pets.”
Weymouth good egg Tracey Evely from Weymouth has five ex-battery hens. She said: “For the first time in their lives my hens were able to roam around, free range, in my garden.
“For their whole life they had been living in battery cages.
“Agnes, Mavis, Edna, Button and Polly are genuinely pleased to see me and will often march down to my kitchen wanting more food. They really are remarkable, and I had no idea they were quite so characterful. They sit on my knee and love being near me when I am pottering in the garden.”
Tracey added: “I love my hens, and the eggs are a lovely bonus.”
Since the BHWT was founded in 2005, the charity has rehomed over one million hens, working closely with
21% rely on charity services
More than one in five Dorset residents used charity services last year, according to researchers.
An average of 21% of county people used services including mental health care, debt advice and medical support in 2024 according to an Ansvar Insurance. A company spokesperson said the analysis, based on the Charities Aid Foundation’s (CAF) local giving report 2025 and interactive data map, emphasises a “reliance on charities for essential needs-based services”.farmers to give these birds a second chance. It has 48 collection points and 1,400 volunteers. King Charles himself adopted the charity’s millionth hen.

Gaynor Davies, head of welfare and operations at the BHWT, said: “Our hens are so deserving of a second chance, which is why we’ve sent over one million off to new homes since 2005. If you’re in Dorset and fancy offering a home to some hardworking hens – who will continue popping out the occasional egg – please get in touch as soon as you can.”
Anyone looking to adopt simply needs to offer these hens security, food and water and a little bit of TLC.
Whether you’re an experienced hen keeper or a complete beginner, the BHWT can support you to adopt your first flock. You just need a little outdoor space – and a big heart.
n To adopt hens, visit bhwt.org.uk/hen-adoption and click ‘adopt’ for your nearest location or ring the team on 01884 860084.