UK Men’s Sheds Association (UKMSA) welcomed a visit from local MP and Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Mel Stride.
UKMSA have been given a weeks residency at Portcullis House in the Palace of Westminster estate where they have constructed a shed to raise the awareness of men’s wellbeing and the Men’s Shed movement.
‘The Parliament Shed’ has been custom-built and is designed to highlight the health, wellbeing and social benefits of community-run Men’s Sheds and the key areas where Sheds make an impact.
With over 1,100 Men’s Sheds across the UK and over 33,000 ‘Shedders’, the UKMSA aims to use this platform to engage with people working in the parliamentary estate and government to raise the profile of the Men’s Sheds movement and highlight the causes at the event.
Charlie Bethel, chief executive officer said:
“Men’s Sheds work because they are a simple concept people can relate to. Whether it is a Shed building bird boxes or mending football boots and bikes to give to disadvantaged children in their communities, you can see a real pride and sense of achievement in everyone who comes through the door of a Shed.”
Mel added:
“Men’s Sheds is an amazing movement that helps to shine a much-needed light on men’s mental health. I have actively supported and visited Okehampton Men in Sheds and provided support to Moreton Men’s Shed who have teamed up with the health and wellbeing organisation Wellmoor, part of the Moretonhampstead Development Trust.
I very much encourage other communities to establish Men’s Sheds across Central Devon to which they would have my full support.”
For further details and to consider starting a shed visit https://menssheds.org.uk/.
