Health Minister Robin Swann marked Men’s Health Week by visiting a men’s shed project in north Belfast this week.
The first men’s shed in Ireland was opened in 2009, and since then over 400 have opened, with around 80 in the north.
The idea, which originated in Australia in the 1990s, is to ensure that older men can have social outlets together and take part in activities, whilst ensuring that they don’t suffer from loneliness and that their mental health is taken care of.
Mr Swann said: “As we mark Men’s Health Week (June 13 to 17th) it is great to see how well this project scheme is supported by local men and I am very grateful for the opportunity to visit the North Belfast Men’s Shed.”
“Speaking with those who use these facilities it is obvious these initiatives are benefiting the mental, emotional and physical wellbeing of men and having a positive impact on the communities from which they come.”
Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Michael McBride, who also visited the men's shed, said: “Many men are reluctant to talk about health issues and their mental health, or seek professional help so schemes like this are a good place to start the conversation and share their experiences and learn from each other.”
Stephen Fields, one of the organisers of the Armagh Men’s Shed, said that men’s lives have been transformed by the success of the project.
“The best thing about it has been seeing guys who you may see in the pubs or the bookies doing something fun and productive with their lives instead of succumbing to addiction or loneliness.”
“The vast majority of problems among older men relate to loneliness. This can be in the form of depression. What’s great about the Men’s Shed is that coming together of men and that they can work for themselves. Their slogan is that they talk ‘shoulder to shoulder’ and that’s exactly what they do”.
A 2019 Groundwork NI survey found that 90% of participants said that attending the men’s shed was ‘helpful in combating loneliness’, whilst 60% said it was ‘positively impacting on their physical health’.
Rachel Toner, Community Development Lead at Groundwork NI said: “Men’s Sheds provide a renewed sense of purpose for the members or ‘shedders’, as they like to be known, by providing a safe space where men can open up and connect with others.
“Men’s Sheds are vital community organisations, and they have a massive impact on the health and wellbeing of members. They have played a vital role in allowing individuals to reconnect with others and instilling a sense of identity and belonging to help carry them through, even in the midst of the recent global pandemic.
“Sheds provide opportunities for improved health and wellbeing of the members. The men make friends, learn new skills, and can often find a renewed sense of purpose by giving back to their communities. Sheds not only have a positive impact on the members but also on their family and on those around them.”
To find out more about Men’s Sheds and how to join one close to where you live, or if you are thinking about starting a shed in your area – contact Groundwork NI for support and practical advice on how to do this.
