About Men’s Sheds
Men’s Sheds were originally developed in Australia in the 1980s as non-profit groups that provide a local space for woodwork and socialisation, with the aim of improving the overall health and wellbeing of men. The concept developed into the idea that ‘Men don’t talk face to face, they talk shoulder to shoulder’ meaning men build more meaningful connections when actively working or engaging in another activity. Sheds then began solely as woodworking spaces for retired men to socialise and re-discover a sense of purpose.
The benefits of Sheds, both physically and mentally, could not be predicted, and the concept soon spread globally.
‘Men don’t talk face to face, they talk shoulder to shoulder.’
Men’s Sheds were developed as a way to combat loneliness in older men. For those who have seemingly lost a sense of purpose in their life, the local Men’s Shed provides invaluable services. From something as simple as sitting down for a coffee and a biscuit, to learning a new skill, Men’s Sheds benefit not only the individual, but the entire community as well.
Every Shed is unique and tailored to the needs of the local community, with each one being ran by it’s own members for it’s own members, while still being a part of a greater community of Sheds across the region, and the world.
Most Sheds begin by focussing on woodwork and other activities involving actively working with your hands, while some choose to focus more on wellbeing and health focused workshops and activities.
What We Do
Men’s Sheds can offer a variety of activities for their shedders, who will also come with their own ideas for days out and skills they would like to work on. More traditional style sheds will focus on workshop style skills and activities, like woodworking and metalworking. Most Sheds will then sell what they make in the workshop, and some of the Sheds in Northern Ireland have helped local schools by building benches, sensory tables and other play facilities. Though, Sheds do not always follow this route. Sometimes they prefer to do other activities more focused on health and wellbeing, for example a healthy cooking class, or some form of exercise class.
