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.

How Groundwork Helps Men’s Sheds

The Groundwork NI programme is designed to:

  • Support the growth of new Men’s Sheds throughout Northern Ireland;
  • Provide effective services to Men’s Sheds;
  • Raise awareness and understanding of the Men’s Sheds model;

Groundwork NI can provide support and assistance to existing and new Men’s Sheds. The support offered is bespoke to the individual shed.  Examples include training, action planning, arranging visits to other Sheds, networking events, sourcing funding, registering with Northern Ireland Charities Commission and developing policies and procedures.

Interested in starting a Men’s Shed?

Have a look at our Men’s Shed website for more information or contact Groundwork Northern Ireland email menssheds@groundworkni.co.uk or call 028 9074 9494

On a visit to a Men’s Shed as Health Minister, Robin Swann commented

DOH Minister plays pool GWNI

Speaking with those who use these facilities it is obvious these initiatives are benefiting the mental, emotional and physical wellbeing of men and having a positive impact on the communities from which they come.