The grants will support both new and existing groups, including sheds at Jersey Park Pavilion and Sketty Bowls Club, where members say the funding will make a meaningful difference to their weekly activities and outreach.
The Men’s Shed movement has grown rapidly in Swansea in recent years, with the council investing more than £100,000 to help expand the network from single figures to over 25 active groups.
Weekly meet-ups and new spaces
Among those attending regular sessions is Alan Potts of St Thomas, who joins a weekly social at Jersey Park Pavilion on Wednesdays between 2.30pm and 4.30pm.
“We usually have between 12 and 18 attend each week,” he said. “It’s a change of scenery, gets us out of the house and socialising.”
David Lloyd of Port Tennant added:
“Some play cards, or participate in a quiz. We have some expert gardeners who give tips and tricks to the rest of us, we share a meal, and there’s always hot water for a cuppa.
It’s a lovely relaxed environment and we are looking to expand thanks to the funding from Swansea Council and welcome even more members.”
(Image: Swansea Council)
At Sketty Bowls Club, the funding will help cover building rental and materials for social activities, especially during the winter months when outdoor bowls is paused.
Paul Thomas said:
“We play several times a week but have introduced a club evening every Wednesday for new members.
Throughout the winter we’ll be meeting one evening every week and the funding will help with running costs and provide materials for social activities.”
Council support and community impact
The latest round of funding follows a call for applications in May, with more than 20 groups now set to share the £25,000 allocation. Swansea Council says the investment reflects its commitment to supporting grassroots wellbeing initiatives.
Council Leader Rob Stuart said:
“The growth of the Men’s Shed network is a real success story in Swansea, providing great social opportunities for hundreds of people every week.
I’m proud that we’ve been able to play our part in making this happen.”
Cabinet Member for Wellbeing, Alyson Anthony, added:
“I’ve been fortunate to visit quite a few of the sheds and have seen at first hand the incredibly positive impact they have on the health and well-being of members in reducing social isolation of both men and women.
The volunteers that run them are doing a fantastic job and are playing such important roles in their local communities.”
Men’s Sheds offer informal, welcoming spaces for people to connect, share skills, and take part in activities ranging from gardening and crafts to quizzes and shared meals. While traditionally aimed at older men, many Swansea sheds now welcome women and younger members too.
