Frequently asked questions
What is a Men's Shed?
Men's Sheds is a mental health initiative, for men to get together and share common interests such as practical making and doing. Many men - particularly during or after middle age - suffer from depression, isolation and loneliness - with few outlets and resources available to get out, unwind and chat.
There's more information on the Men's Sheds Association website - but perhaps a better way of putting it is that the Men's Shed is what the members decide and make it to be!
So only men are allowed?
Not at all! The BSE Men's Shed is inclusive and welcomes all who share our values of mutual support and community. So please feel free to attend, whatever your gender, age (members must be over 18), ability, faith or orientation - you will be welcome.
What happens at the meetings?
Our workshop meetings are the core activity of the shed. The location is equipped for woodworking - we will be expanding the available tools, but welcome input from new members as to what equipment and crafts to develop.
We also meet two evenings a month - the first and third Thursday - from 1900-2100. We don't open the workshop; these meetings are social and/or for community talks. All members are welcome to attend and/or suggest activities.
What if I have limited mobility or other additional needs?
We welcome members of all abilities, and are happy to have a chat about how you can get involved. If you have limited mobility, you're welcome to use the workshop as much as suits your own ability, provided it can be done safely.
If you rely on a carer, please ensure they can attend with you, as our volunteers aren't trained or qualified to provide physical or mental care themselves.
The Centre is wheelchair-accessible, with accessible toilets.
What can I learn?
You may be imagining old men doing woodwork... and we admit that is accurate in some cases! But we are very keen to find members with other skills they can share and develop.
Currently we have members who can help with:
- Woodwork (furniture/carpentry)
- Woodturning
- Crafts and painting
- CNC machining/3D printing (note we have no equipment... yet)
- Metalworking and welding (as above, but can discuss/advise)
- IT skills
- General DIY skills
- Repairs & restoration
But please do join if you have skills to share and develop - we are very keen to expand this list!
What can I work on or make?
If you have a project that you can work on with the tools and space we have, then of course! We would be glad to both help and learn where possible.
We also have various community projects that require things making if you are looking for the opportunity to help as you learn (including crafts to sell at our stall at events).
Do I have to make things?
Not at all. While the premise of the Men's Shed is that doing and making makes it easier to share, relax, unwind and talk about any problems you might have - members are just as welcome if you just want to chat, play cards - or even just relax in a space away from your usual routine.
Are there any fees?
We have a £20 annual membership fee, starting 1 June. This aims to cover insurance and ensures you are fully registered as a member and thus gain voting rights at our AGMs. Members joining mid-year will pay a pro-rata-ed fee. This fee is reviewed at our annual AGMs.
The workshop meetings are at The Centre UK - which operates as a day care centre during the week, while we have use of it on Saturday morning. We ask for a payment of £3 each session (please bring cash!) to help cover operational costs. (There is currently no payment required for Thursday evenings).
Is membership mandatory?
You are very welcome to attend one or two meetings for a chat and to meet the team and other members. But we do ask you to become a registered member if you wish to continue - so we can keep you informed of events, and get your input on the direction of the shed. Other than the membership fee above, there are no specific attendance or any other obligations for members.