Open meeting to explore new Men’s Shed group in Spilsby

Men’s Sheds are a place to develop social connections, build friendship, share skills and knowledge and, of course, a lot of laughter.
Andrew Fitzgerald, who is calling the public meeting, said: “One that I visited was an old public toilets building.  T

“They can be empty offices, portable cabin`s warehouses, garages, and in at least one case, a disused mortuary.

“Some Sheds are purpose-built workshops, but they rarely start out that way.

“Many don’t have premises at all in the beginning and instead form a group that meets regularly for the social connection, company and camaraderie until they can find somewhere to kit out with tools.

“Many Sheds get involved in community projects too – restoring village features, helping maintain parks and green spaces, and building things for schools, libraries and individuals in need.
“Most of the Sheds in the UK are run by the men that use them. This makes a stronger feeling of fulfilment and achievement in the men that develop them.”

There are now 400 Men`s Sheds in the UK, with 100 in the development stage or in the process of opening.

Currently the nearest ones are in Mablethorpe and Louth.
The one proposed for Spilsby will initially target men aged 55 and over. Andrew said: “For a long time research has shown the negative impact of loneliness and isolation on a person’s health and wellbeing.

“Recently we have seen more evidence come to light that shows loneliness and isolation can be as hazardous to our health as obesity and excessive smoking. “Surveys from mental health charities are finding that millions of people report feeling lonely on a daily basis.
“Men typically find it more difficult to build social connections than women, and rarely share personal concerns about health and worries.

“It is not the case for all men, but for some, when retirement comes, it can feel like personal identity and purpose is lost.

“Men’s Sheds can change all of that. They rebuild communities and in many cases, they save men’s lives.
“A Men’s Shed based in Spilsby would offer the local men a meeting place that is about production and giving back to the community.”

So far response has been positive. “Although this project is in its early stages, I have already had verbal support from members of the public and groups who think it’s a worthwhile idea.”

The open meeting will be held at the Sessions House, Spilsby Theatre, Church Street, on Wednesday, January 15, from 1.30pm to 3pm.

For more information email [email protected]