Men’s Shed opens doors to offer practical help, support
MEN roamed the rooms of the newly opened Men’s Shed on Saturday as they took in their choice of project to get involved in.
From metal- and wood-working lathes to a laser cutter and a kitchen to a sewing machine, the workshop has big plans to get its members involved in sharing their experiences and learning new skills and, through this, helping to improve their mental health.
Dave Gallienne is hoping to share his woodwork skills with other members.
‘It’s brilliant,’ he said. ‘My skills lie in woodwork, so I’m looking forward to trying out the CNC wood router, which creates objects from wood.
‘There’s so much here and it’s not just about the tools.
‘It’s about coming here for a chat, you may not do anything but have a cup of coffee, a bacon sandwich and a chat and that is the whole point of this place, a safe space for men to feel they can turn to.
‘I’ll be coming here Wednesdays and Saturdays – I hope to lean lots of new things.’
Another member, Neil Wilkie, who has been a catering chef for more than 40 years, said he is hoping to teach fellow members easy to cook one-pot recipes.
‘There’s a lot of talent in the island,’ he said.
‘Many men do not know certain skills, such as cooking and sewing, and through this they can learn for the first time from like-minded individuals.’
The building will also include within it a shed retreat for men to be able to take some time out in to simply talk and relax.
‘Men can become isolated through no fault of their own, from bereavement, and somewhere like this is a good place to come and socialise with others,’ added Mr Wilkie.
‘Everyone’s had mental health issues at some point in their lives. This is a space for men, who can be particularly reserved when talking about their feelings, to come to and feel safe and not feel judged.’
The Men’s Shed workshop is based at the former Sandpiper Vinery in St Peter’s.
Previously the vinery’s packing sheds, the property has been developed since a conversation brought the idea up to create it three years ago.
Founding member Marcel Lenormand said he was happy with the turnout for the shed’s opening.
‘It’s been a huge project and to see it open officially is amazing,’ he said.
‘I’ve seen lots of new faces and I’m looking forward to seeing men come down here, make new friends and make use of the facilities.’
The site is shared with Makerspace, who are hoping to officially open their side of things next year once they acquire tools and set up certain elements, when the space will become gender neutral, allowing everybody the chance to use the facilities.
n Men’s Shed will be open every week at 2pm on Wednesdays and 10am on Saturdays.
