Age UK Surrey wins the Innovation Award for Men in Sheds!
Published on 24 February 2017 04:20 PM
We are pleased to announce that we received the ‘Innovation in the Voluntary Sector’ Award for our Men in Sheds project at the Innovate Guildford 2017 Awards. Showcasing innovation across the borough, the winners of the awards were revealed at the Innovation Award Ceremony at the Guildhall on Wednesday 22nd February.
Our Men in Sheds project, located in Ash, allows men to socialise, make new friends and learn new skills. The main Shed activity is woodworking, which is carried out in a well-equipped workshop which includes hand tools, portable power tools and small machines. Supervision is by a well-qualified and experienced leader. Men work on their own projects and also participate in making items for sale to help with funding for the Shed.
Sue Zirps CEO, Age UK Surrey said ‘The Award is a real credit to the project, John Fairs who co-ordinates the activities and to all the “Shedders” who Attend “The Shed”.’
The 'Innovation in the Voluntary Sector' award was sponsored by the Community Foundation for Surrey, and was presented by their trustee, Peter Cluff (pictured right). They have previously made multiple grants that supported the Men in Sheds project and have said they are 'delighted to see such a fantastic project recognised in the local community!'
Why is this activity so important?
Retirement creates a void and our research showed that lone men were less likely to engage in activities and social interaction than women. Activities and social inclusion helps improve feelings of well-being and fewer trips to the Doctor.
New shedder Ed commented ‘I lost my wife about 18 months ago and I’m trying to be more sociable so I was really pleased to find this one on the internet’.
Want to Join?
To join the shed and for more information contact John Fairs on 07722 753074 or email enquiries@ageuksurrey.org.uk