UK Men’s Sheds Association (UKMSA) brought a Men’s Shed to the Palace of Westminster estate from 18th to the 22nd March 2024 in a drive to raise awareness of men’s wellbeing and the Men’s Shed movement.

‘The Parliament Shed’, was custom-built and 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 used 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 and partners engaged 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 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.’

In addition, UKMSA announced a formal partnership with Royal British Legion.

‘Many Sheds in the UK have veterans in. With the Royal British Legion we hope to increase that number by helping Sheds become more accessible, particularly for people with conditions such as PTSD.  We believe this agreement will also see more Sheds opened and we can have more of an impact on communities across the UK.  We are particularly proud to be working on establishing Dementia Sheds across the six RBL Care Homes.’  explained Charlie Bethel of UKMSA.

Men’s Sheds work:

• 96% of Shedders felt less lonely after joining a Men’s Shed
• 89% of Shedders reported to be less depressed.
• 75% of Shedders reported to be less anxious.
• 97% of Shedders made new friends after joining a Men’s Shed.
• 88% of Shedders felt more connected to their community.
• 39% of Sheds report that they have either saved a life (25%) or believe they have saved a life (14%)

UKMSA was founded in 2013 and celebrated its 10-year anniversary last year.

Rebecca Harris took part in the Men's Shed activities this week. She commented:

"We have wonderful Men's Shed associations locally in Castle Point who do great work. Community is important for everybody to have! If you are interested in joining a Men's Shed, there is one Thundersley and I would encourage anybody to join."