Men In Sheds Invite New Members

Published on: 30 Apr, 2019
Updated on: 2 May, 2019

Men in Sheds, located at Japonica Court in Ash, has opened its doors for two extra days, and Age UK Surrey is looking for new participants.

In an effort to combat isolation and loneliness, the community-based project brings older men together in a safe, informal and friendly environment to learn and practise DIY and woodworking skills. The well-equipped workshop includes hand tools, portable power tools and small machines.

Men in Sheds opened in 2014, and has been operating on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. It is now also open on Thursdays and Fridays. The shed welcomes participants regardless of entry skill level as everyone can take part in the joint projects and learn from each other as well as the experienced leaders.

Tony Frost, a current Men in Sheds participant, said: “I enjoy it immensely. We all get on well and have a really fun time in addition to learning new skills. I have made lots of good friends and occasionally we all have a day out together. It is now an important part of my life and it has also, in part, helped me get over the loss of my wife.”

John Fairs, Men in Sheds co-ordinator, Age UK Surrey said: “Men in Sheds has been a huge success, winning many awards, and we are pleased to be able to open the doors to the shed for these additional sessions. I would encourage anyone over the age of 50 with an interest in woodwork to enquire about joining us.”

If you are interested in attending a Men in Sheds session, call 01483 503414.

You can email to: enquiries@ageuksurrey.org.uk or visit the Men in Sheds page on Age Uk Surrey’s website.

Responses to Men In Sheds Invite New Members

Sue Reeve Reply

May 1, 2019 at 10:02 pm

Although I don’t live in the Ash area, I would be very interested to know whether women would also be invited to join a “Men in sheds” group. I know quite a few women who are extremely competent in the workshop and even if they’ve never had a go would hugely benefit from joining such an organisation. Using your hands to make something is incredibly therapeutic!
- Jim Allen Reply
  
  May 2, 2019 at 12:16 am
  
  I don’t think Sue gets it. The men are trying to get away from the “modern” approach to gender. Some men occasionally prefer men’s company and men’s humour. It’s the same for women of course, hence “girls nights out”.
David Roberts Reply

May 2, 2019 at 2:31 pm

“Women in Kitchens”? (Sorry)
- Jules Cranwell Reply
  
  May 2, 2019 at 11:36 pm
  
  You’re braver than I am David!
Sue Reeve Reply

May 3, 2019 at 7:12 am

Absolutely what I’d expect as a response from men!

I don’t do girls nights out but I do enjoy making chairs and the like out of greenwood and no power tools whatsoever.

Fortunately the organisation I belong to is welcoming of all people. Not all women want girly talk, also learning practical skills is just fun and working with others, whomever they are, can itself be educational in all sorts of ways.