Men’s Sheds are community spaces where men and women from all backgrounds can meet, chat and take part in the shed’s activities.
To date Swansea Council says it has invested more than £100,000 to support the network with the number of sheds increasing from single figures to more than 20 in just four years.
A further £25,000 is available this year and groups can now apply by visiting swansea.gov.uk/SupportForMensSheds with a closing date of Sunday June 8.
The funding can be used for both capital and revenue aspects of projects and the grants are open to new groups and those that have been assisted in the past.
Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Wellbeing, Alyson Anthony, said: “Men’s Sheds have a really positive impact on health, well-being and in reducing social isolation by drawing on the wealth of skills and experience that exists within our communities.
“I’ve been lucky enough to visit some of these groups in Swansea to see the life-changing impact they can have on those involved, both men and women.
“I would urge any groups that may qualify to get in touch, whether they are established or just getting started, as our Tackling Poverty team are available for a friendly chat and advice about the opportunities for support that are available.”
There is no minimum or maximum amount set for applications, however it is anticipated the average grants will be up to £1,200.
The Old Blacksmiths in Clydach (pictured top) is among those to have secured funding in the past and said the impact of Men’s Sheds can be life changing.
“We have an 89-year-old who has been coming to the Shed since we opened. He has recently said that he would be lost without the Shed. He lives on his own and is always the first to arrive, ready to start or finish a project. He has made wonderful friends and life is worth living again after losing his wife,” said a spokeswoman.
A regular at the Gateway to Gower Community Shed added: “I really enjoy coming to the shed as I get to chat and meet lovely people with different talents and we all help each other experience new hobbies. It is a real community event which is so important. It gets me out of the house and having the delicious food is a real bonus. You can see it lifts people’s spirits just getting together and making things.”
