The number of Men’s Sheds providing social support, camaraderie and the chance to share and learn skills for men and women across Swansea has more than doubled in recent years.
Swansea Council has invested more than £100k in supporting new and existing groups and this year, 22 Men’s Sheds in the network successfully applied for funding.
Four years ago the number of sheds in Swansea was in single figures.
Among those to launch this year is the Llansamlet Men’s Shed.
The group has taken over the former OAP Pavilion in Birchgrove at a peppercorn lease from the council and has received financial support towards the on-going refurbishment of the building.
Thanks to the hard work of volunteers and donations from local businesses and partners there is a new kitchen, the main hall has been brought back into use and a workshop is being added at the rear.
Going forward there are plans for growing beds outside to produce fruit and vegetables for the local foodbank and improved parking at the entrance.
Shed Chairman Peter Harris said: “I used to drive lorries and was aware of Men’s Sheds in other areas so every now and then I’d go and have a look at them and see what they were doing.
“Starting one here was something I’d been looking to do for a few years and getting this up and running means a lot to me.
“I’m overwhelmed with the support we are getting from the council and the support of the local councillors has been amazing.”
Each Monday there is a sewing and knitting group that is proving popular with the women members.
Around 25 to 30 people attend between noon and 3pm on Tuesdays for tea, cake, biscuits and a chat as well as the occasional guest speaker.
Once the workshop has been kitted out Mr Harris said opening hours will increase and the aim is for the pavilion to be in use every week day and not just for members but for other local groups needing a home as well.
Marcia Ashton said: “It’s been a great thing for people in this area especially if they are on their own and looking for company and friendship. Everyone is welcome.
“I think after Covid a lot of things stopped and never got going again so to have this, to encourage people out of the house, it’s important.”
Swansea Council Leader Rob Stuart, and Cabinet Member for Wellbeing Alyson Anthony, recently visited the Llansamlet Men’s Shed to meet the volunteers.
Cllr Stewart said: “I’m very proud that through the council support that’s been made available in recent years the network in Swansea has more than doubled.
“Men’s Sheds have a very positive impact on health, well-being and in reducing social isolation of both men and women and the council’s ongoing commitment to them is just part of our support to local initiatives that make a difference to people’s lives every day.”
Cllr Anthony added: “It’s great to see the growing popularity of the Llansamlet Men’s Sheds and to hear about the exciting plans they have for the future.
“The volunteers are doing a fantastic job and I’m pleased we’ve been able to play our part to get this group up and running and playing such an important role in the local community.”
