‘Men and Women In Sheds’ Celebrates 4 Years

AGE UK Leicester Shire and Rutland’s ‘Men and Women In Sheds’ celebrated its 4th Birthday on Thursday 13th June, and what a wonderful gift to receive - a cheque from Barratts Community Fund Scheme for £1000.00. To mark the occasion a party was held at the Charnwood Shed, which saw a great turn out from service users and community leaders alike.

As well as being treated to food and refreshments, attendees got a glimpse into the wide array of projects completed within the past year. Beyond the handcrafted bird houses and flower beds, at the heart of the celebrations was the local community built around the Shed.

The day highlighted how the Shed has helped local people bond over shared interests and collaborate on projects, many of whom have experienced challenging life changes such as retirement and bereavement.

One service user said:

“After retiring it’s been a great way to meet new people and get out of the house, all these odd jobs and little projects I use to do on my own at the bottom of the garden I have a group of mates to help and laugh along with.”

The original ‘Men In Sheds’ was launched back in 2015, and has achieved great success with over 150 men using the facilities. The scheme has since expanded to include a ‘Women In Sheds’ branch last year, which has also proved to be very popular with 70 women over the age of 50 actively involved.

Fully equipped with work benches and specific equipment, the Shed has proven to be a valuable community resource that has allowed for skill sharing in areas such as woodwork and metalwork.

Project Coordinator, Martin Gladders, said:

“It is vital that no matter their age, people are learning and challenging themselves to try new things. The Shed is a great social environment to gain new skills and importantly gives people a sense of achievement.”

Anyone interested in participating in the Charnwood Men or Women In Sheds scheme should contact Nikky Miles at Age UK: 0116 2237346.