BROMSGROVE Men in Sheds has received a boost from Barratt Homes West Midlands which has donated to its Shed Share Scheme for a fifth consecutive year.
The developer renewed its sponsorship for the scheme which – run by Age UK North Worcestershire – helps people to stay connected and active.
Jo Hughes, Deputy CEO at Age UK North Worcestershire, said: “The Shed is not just about making things – it is about making connections, supporting mental and physical health, reducing isolation and creating a sense of purpose.
“It just works, but it only continues ‘working’ because of the amazing support the Bromsgrove Shed receives, which is why we are so grateful to Barratt Homes for renewing its sponsorship.”
Men in Sheds, originally introduced to the country by Age UK Cheshire in 2008, tackles loneliness and isolation in older men, where retirement can mean loss of status and contact.
The first ‘Bromsgrove Shed’ was set up in The Craft Centre at Stoke Prior in December 2015 before the group moved to larger premises on the Metal and Ores Industrial estate in April 2016.
When those premises were put up for sale in 2024, the future of the Shed was at risk but fortunately an area within a shared unit was identified and, in November that year, the Bromsgrove Shed relocated to Finstall.
Under its former name of Age UK Bromsgrove, Redditch and Wyre Forest, the charity launched its annual Shed Share Sponsorship Scheme in 2018 to help support the cost of running and developing its much-valued group.
Local businesses and organisations can sponsor a ‘Shed Share’ for a year and, in return, sponsors will receive a Shed Share certificate, as well as having their support recognised in a variety of ways by Age UK North Worcestershire and the Shedders.
The Shed provides a space for anyone to work on DIY projects or furniture reclamation and enjoy the community spirit.
Adrian Evans, Managing Director at Barratt Homes West Midlands, said after supporting Bromsgrove Men in Sheds for five successive years, it was always keen to hear of the charity’s latest projects.
“Its shed is a popular hub for Worcestershire’s men to get together, collaborate on projects and make the most of the social inclusion available to them.”
Visit: ageuk.org.uk/northworcs/ for more on Age UK North Worcestershire.