The UK Men’s Sheds Association (UKMSA) celebrated the exceptional accomplishments of its Shedders and community projects at the highly anticipated UK Men’s Sheds Awards 2025, held on Friday, November 28, 2025 at Westminster in London, UK. The event brought together Shedders, MPs, Peers, supporters, and funders from all over the UK to acknowledge and honor individuals and groups who have made a significant impact in their communities.
According to UKMSA CEO Caroline Ellis, this year’s ceremony was a celebration of the incredible diversity and creativity of Sheds throughout the UK, as well as the profound influence they have on their members and the wider community. The event was graced by the presence of many MPs and peers, including Rt Hon Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons, Al Carms MP, Armed Forces Minister, and Chris Bloore MP, who sponsored the event.
The prestigious title of UK Shed of the Year 2025 was awarded to Men’s Shed Blaenau Gwent, a South Wales Shed that has strengthened community bonds by embracing a variety of projects and catering to the diverse needs of its members. These include initiatives such as podcasting and expanding their Ladies group to provide craft and emotional support. Their standout intergenerational project involved the construction of a mini golf course by Shedders in collaboration with boys from a local school, aimed at improving school attendance. The course has since been used by over 1,000 students, demonstrating the Shed’s commitment to social inclusion, wellbeing, and innovative community engagement.
Broadstairs Town Shed in Kent was the recipient of the Health and Wellbeing Award for its holistic approach to supporting the physical and mental health of its members. The Shed offers “Wellbeing Mondays” and “Creative Fridays,” providing members with a safe space to connect, reflect, and find renewed purpose through woodworking and shared activities.
The Community Project Award was presented to Reddish Men’s Shed in Stockport for their “Bike Giveaway” initiative, which involves restoring and donating bicycles to community groups, schools, and charities. This project promotes sustainability, reduces waste, and ensures that people from all income levels have access to affordable cycling.
Partnerships play a crucial role in supporting local communities, and the Partnership Award was given to Shrewsbury Men’s Shed for their groundbreaking collaboration with Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust. The Shed offers a stigma-free environment for men affected by illnesses, including cancer, through their “Men Like Us” initiative. This project provides friendship, practical support, and a sense of belonging, and has become the most referred-to social prescribing project in the county.
The newly introduced Armed Forces Award, sponsored by the Royal British Legion, was presented to Ripon Men’s Shed in North Yorkshire. The group was recognized for their creative and community-minded project to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. The project involved the creation of a full-size knitted “Churchill Tank” in collaboration with the Ripon Community Poppy Project. The initiative raised funds for Help for Heroes and gained national recognition.
Braunton Men’s Shed in Devon, winners of The Heritage & Habitat Award, transformed two disused railway carriages into a fully functional workshop. Their “Toolcycle” scheme involves restoring and recycling tools for local use, while environmental projects such as wildlife boxes and repair cafés underscore their commitment to sustainability and community heritage.
In one of the most poignant moments of the afternoon, Robert Taylor of Medway Men in Sheds was named Shedder of the Year. Despite being blind and facing health challenges, Rob has become the backbone of his Shed, organizing projects, guiding members, and offering wisdom and reassurance. “His dedication, compassion, and resilience embody the very spirit of the Men’s Sheds movement,” commented Rob Lloyd, chair UKMSA Trustees.
Two Sheds also received Special Recognition Awards. Humber Shed Alliance, a network of 22 Sheds working collaboratively across Humberside, was commended for sharing resources, training, and partnerships with the NHS. The Octopus Shed Project from Kent was recognized for supporting the work of UKMSA in the field of men’s health, including hosting a visit from the Department of Health and Social Care, supporting Diageo’s alcohol moderation program, and participating in the UKMSA mental health video, featuring a powerful story from Shedder Peter about his personal journey.
Chris Fisher, UKMSA Patron and renowned as “The Blind Woodturner,” congratulated all nominees and winners, thanking sponsors, ambassadors, and supporters for their ongoing commitment. “These awards shine a light on the extraordinary things happening in Sheds across the UK,” said Fisher. “From restoring bicycles to supporting veterans and improving mental health, Shedders continue to prove the power of community, skill-sharing, and friendship.”
The UK Men’s Shed Awards were sponsored by Diageo, Tite
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.