Men’s Shed in New Parks praised for helping people through anxiety & loneliness

A community workshop designed to combat social isolation and improve mental health is transforming lives thanks to a helping hand from Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews.

The Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland PCC provided funding to New Parks Men’s Shed and Community Garden for a new weatherproof storage area to enable outdoor activities to continue throughout the winter months in addition to a minor upgrade of facilities.

The project brings together men to socialise, share skills and work on hands-on craft projects in a relaxed environment where they can connect to other people in their communities and make friends.

Members engage in woodworking, metal work, electronics, gardening and community restoration projects, developing new skills and sometimes selling what they have made to raise vital funds for the project.

The facility, which also welcomes adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), provides a social space for tea and conversation to improve mental health and wellbeing.

Members become part of a supportive community and are given job titles and praise to boost confidence, increase their self-esteem and reduce feelings of anxiety.

Previously, members have made benches, raised planters, a pond, insect sanctuary, shelving units, raised planters and a summer house.

Volunteers are also trained in mental health first aid and provide an open ear and signposting to help for those struggling with loneliness, isolation, or personal worries.

This is in line with Rupert Matthews’ focus on tackling the root causes of crime through early intervention and supporting local initiatives that stop issues from getting worse.

The approach is about working with communities, giving residents a voice in what happens in their neighbourhoods, and joining up with partners to deal with problems in a practical, common-sense way — with more emphasis on preventing issues than reacting to them later.

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Oliver Bryan said: “This facility has become a real hub for members — a friendly place to meet up, make friends and try something new, all while feeling part of a great group.

“It’s a simple idea that makes a big difference, helping to boost wellbeing and ease loneliness, especially for men who might otherwise feel a bit isolated.

“Even through the colder months, the group has kept the momentum going, which says a lot about how much it’s valued. We’re really pleased to have supported the new storage area so everything can carry on running smoothly all year round.”

Men’s Shed is a globally recognised format and there are now thousands of similar facilities across the world, each helping to promote positive mental health and wellbeing.

In New Parks, the project has become a focal part of community life, with volunteers working alongside other charities and partners to build resilience and strength and help people thrive.

Picture Shows (L-R):Justin Moulder (Circuit Mission Enabler), Graham Foster and Deputy PCC Oliver Bryan

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