End of the road for Nenagh Men’s Shed?
By Brendan Murphy
The heartfelt announcement which was posted on social media last week regarding the closure of the Nenagh Men’s Shed caused a public outcry.
The much-loved community group had worked so hard in recent years to re-establish itself and provide a much-needed, if not vital outlet, for members of the community where they could gather together and engage in activities, learn new skill sets and get involved in community work.
Mick White, who posted the sad announcement regarding the closure of the Nenagh Men’s Shed, said that running costs such as rent, insurance and electricity has left them with no option but to close their doors. “Over the last few years we have worked tirelessly in an effort to secure a premises that we could afford, and call our own,” said Mick White.
As a result, the group has spent the last year trying to fundraise to keep the door open, which has had a negative impact on each of them mentally.
SUPPORT
The community has supported the Nenagh Men’s Shed through various fundraising efforts, but despite this the group has fallen short as the running costs are ongoing.Mick White thanked everyone for their support and pledged that they would make every effort to try and start up again if they find a suitable premises.
I feel the importance and relevance of Men’s Shed can sometimes be overlooked. Men’s Sheds contribute greatly to mental health wellbeing as it brings people together, it’s a friendly safe space with an open-door policy that allows anyone to call in for a cup of tea or a chat - people that might otherwise be at home on their own.
Members can also learn new skill sets from other members of the group and form long lasting friendships. This sort of community and social activity should not only be encouraged but should be supported and funded by our local authorities.
These are the sort of social projects that we should put a strong focus on, as they are inclusive, they encourage social integration, they help reduce social isolation as Men’s and Women’s Sheds provide a social outlet. The list of benefits are endless with groups like these in our communities.
The Men’s Shed movement was first founded in Australia in the 1980s and from there expanded to other countries all over the world.
SHOWING A LEAD
Ireland has become one of the leading nations in recent years and currently has over 450 sheds with at least 10,000 men and women visiting a shed each week.
Most sheds engage in activities such as woodwork, gardening, carpentry, and community work. But others have expanded their interests to include music, fishing, and restoration work to name a few.
Let’s help get the Nenagh Men’s Shed a new home
The Nenagh Men’s Shed is no different to the other 450 sheds in Ireland. In fact the Nenagh group have been extremely active and have contributed so much to our community.
The reason the shed has announced its closure is down to running costs. Other shed groups whom I have spoken with have been fortunate enough to secure rent free premises and this alone has given them much needed financial breathing space to run their local Men’s Shed.
APPEAL
I think as a community we should try and help the Nenagh Men’s Shed reopen its doors. I am putting out an appeal to everyone, including our public representatives, to reach out to the Nenagh Men’s Shed if you feel you can help them in any way to find a shed that they can call home and where they can open their doors to their many members, all of whom are people within our very own community.
Men’s and women’s sheds reignite the true meaning of community spirit and we should support and encourage groups like these within our community.