Grant money presented to local Men’s Shed

Orkney Men’s Shed is hoping to expand and attract new members after receiving a grant from Age Scotland.

The project has been awarded £884 to support its local work tackling loneliness and isolation. The shed, which is in Finstown, provides a meeting place for men from all backgrounds to socialise and share skills.

According to Age Scotland, the grant will pay for three new work benches and sets of tools for woodworking projects.

Orkney Men’s Shed was set up by volunteers last year with the aim of improving social and physical wellbeing. It was officially opened by Liam McArthur MSP in September and meets twice a week.

It is one of around 100 similar Men’s Sheds across Scotland. Inspired by an Australian idea, the first Scottish shed was set up in Aberdeenshire in 2013.

The funds are part of a pot of £15,000 for sheds nationwide. Age Scotland’s small grants programme is supported by the Robertson Trust and the Scottish Government. Shedders hope the new tools and equipment will enable them to reach out to more members and increase the shed’s opening hours. Men will be able to try new activities, pass on their skills and work on projects to benefit the local community.

The shed has also been supported by Voluntary Action Orkney, and has raised funds through a lottery and other activities.

Around 85 members attend the shed regularly, with most over retirement age. With almost 30 per cent of Orkney’s population aged over 60, the group believes there is an increasing need for similar projects to combat social isolation and encourage people to stay active and socially connected. The group has already organised health checks for members by a local nurse practitioner.

Brian Sloan, Age Scotland’s Chief Executive, said: “We’re delighted to support Orkney Men’s Shed and see it go from strength to strength. The shed provides a welcoming space for men from all backgrounds and is an excellent example of the difference that committed volunteers can make in their community.

“Research shows that sheds improve health and wellbeing, and play a key role in combatting loneliness and isolation among older men. I’d encourage anyone with spare time to contact their local shed and see what it has to offer.”