Is the Shed just for men or can women take part?
At present the project is just for men, however if we get enough interest from women we would like to create a women’s group. We are running the project just for men at the moment because we do not feel there is enough provision for men of this age group in the area.
Do I have to be over 55 to use the Shed?
The project is currently running during the week and is primarily aimed at men in retirement. We will consider men under normal retirement age however – please phone to chat to our Carpentry Tutor, Ally on 0113 238 0601 / allison.speller@groundwork.org.uk about availability to join Men In Sheds and pre-book to view the Shed by appointment only. Spaces are limited to one day per week.
How much does it cost?
It costs £2.50 per day to attend The Shed, unless the person is retired or on income related benefit. All the equipment we provide is free for you to use and there is some wood provided – however you may be asked to purchase any specialist equipment or wood yourself for any personal projects. Tea and biscuits are free!
The Shed is funded by Leeds City Council’s Community Learning Fund.
How do I get there?
There is free parking in the top of the nearby Morrisons car park. The nearest bus stops are a short walking distance.
When is the shed open?
The Shed is open every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10.00am-4.00pm. This will increase if we get enough interest, for instance we may consider opening on Fridays or Saturdays.
Will I have to attend at specific times?
The Shedders generally attend one session per week, between 10.00am – 4.00pm on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday the price is £2.50 per session, unless a person is retired or on income related benefits.
Do I need previous woodwork experience?
You don’t need any previous experience at all. There will be a member of staff on site to show you around The Shed and introduce you to machinery, plus other participants are willing to share their skills and knowledge.
Do I need to bring anything with me to the sessions?
You don’t need to bring any equipment or materials, but it’s best to wear something you don’t mind getting a bit mucky.
You might want to bring a packed lunch with you if you’re staying all day. Morley has a number of sandwich shops and Morrisons is a short walk away which offers cafe facilities and take-away sandwiches. The Shed has a small kitchen area where you can make hot drinks.
What kind of things do people make at The Shed?
Our main aim is to bring men together to make items which can be sold or given to charitable causes. Our first project was to make some bird boxes for a local school. Having said this, there is no pressure to make on-demand as we want The Shed to be a relaxing social space where men can learn new skills and share old ones at their own pace.
We are initially working with wood but we want to widen this out in the future to metalwork and include other hobbies such as model building and possibly even gardening.
Do I need to book in advance?
You don’t need to book and can just turn up. You will be asked to complete some simple registration papers with us when you first start.
I have a disability, can I still be involved?
Yes. We have designed workbenches at various heights and there will be one or two members of staff on hand to assist. The Shed is also on the ground floor with easy access to disabled toilets.
Got a question that hasn’t been answered here?
Contact Ally Speller on 0113 238 0601 / allison.speller@groundwork.org.uk and ask away!