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An event is set to bring together anyone who runs or wants to establish a Men’s Shed in their community in Preston.
The free event run by the UK Men’s Shed Association (UKMSA) will take place on Thursday 6 March at Deafway Centre in Brockholes Brow.
Men’s Sheds are community spaces for men to create, converse and connect.
Many Sheds typically focus on providing a space where men can attend, enjoy activities together and make friends over a cup of tea, with an increasing number of Sheds having a mixed membership and welcoming members (Shedders) of any gender.
Shed activities vary greatly but often include woodwork, metalwork, arts, crafts and upcycling.
However, it’s not unusual to find a Shed that branches out into cookery, electronics or even creative writing.
Research has shown Men’s Sheds help reduce loneliness and isolation, help build communities, and have a positive impact on both physical and mental health and wellbeing.
Data also shows how important they are in encouraging men to discuss and act on health-related issues, and have even helped with suicide prevention.
Rachel Meadows, head of development at UKMSA, said: “Men’s Sheds really do have a hugely positive impact on participants, and the work they do often also benefits the wider community. There’s a wealth of knowledge within Sheds and we’re keen for Shedders to get together with other Sheds in their region to make new connections and share expertise.
“The informal meeting will feature panel discussions, roundtable debates and a chance for Shedders to share experiences and discover what works in different Sheds.”
The event is open to all Sheds that want to make more local connections and discover new and better ways to run and manage their Shed. The event will also encourage Sheds to take part in a Tool Exchange, so resources can be better utilised.
Free places are available via Eventbrite.
UKMSA works with many local partners and individual members of the community. Individuals or organisations looking to support a local Shed or a Shed in development in your area and can offer venue space, tools, training or other recourses should contact the local Shed development officer [email protected].
For more details, visit the Men’s Sheds website.
