The UK Men’s Sheds Association (UKMSA) has announced plans to erect a Men’s Shed at Portcullis House in the Palace of Westminster estate from the 18th to the 22nd of March 2024. This initiative aims to raise awareness of men’s wellbeing and the Men’s Shed movement.
Dubbed ‘The Parliament Shed’, this custom-built shed will showcase the health, wellbeing, and social benefits of community-run Men’s Sheds. Expert partners and shedders from the Zero Suicide Alliance and the Centre for Ageing Better will join UKMSA and shedders from across the UK to discuss the impact and importance of Men’s Sheds. Topics of discussion will include suicide prevention, mental health, men’s health, and loneliness.
With over 1,100 Men’s Sheds and 33,000 ‘Shedders’ in the UK, UKMSA hopes to use this event to reach out to those working in the parliamentary estate and government to raise awareness of the Men’s Sheds movement and its partners.
Charlie Bethel, CEO of UKMSA, shared his thoughts on the initiative, stating, “Men’s Sheds work because they are a simple concept that people can relate to. Whether it’s a Shed building bird boxes or repairing football boots and bikes to give to disadvantaged children, there is a real sense of pride and achievement for everyone involved.”
Additionally, UKMSA will be announcing a formal partnership with the Royal British Legion during the event. Bethel explained, “Many Sheds in the UK have veterans, and with the Royal British Legion, we hope to increase that number by helping Sheds become more accessible, particularly for individuals with conditions such as PTSD. This partnership will also see the opening of more Sheds and have a greater impact on communities across the UK. We are especially proud to be working on establishing Dementia Sheds across six RBL Care Homes.”
The Parliament Shed has been donated by Wickes, Onduline, and Power Sheds, and has been adapted by Black Park Shed in Buckinghamshire for the week-long event in Parliament. Tools, equipment, and supplies have been provided by Axminster Tools Ltd, TiteFix, and Ronseal.
This event is being supported by press release distribution company Pressat. UKMSA hopes that through this event, they can continue to raise awareness and promote the Men’s Sheds movement, which aims to improve the wellbeing of men across the UK.
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