Carers UK estimate that 42% of carers are male, and research shows that men are among the hardest groups of carers to reach and support. We are delighted to work with the Scottish Men’s Sheds Association (SMSA), to shine a spotlight on the support available to men, including unpaid carers.
Jason Schroeder, CEO of the Scottish Men’s Sheds Association (SMSA), said:
“We are a grassroots movement leading a mighty ‘health by stealth’ revolution in Scotland. Men need support too and before Men’s Sheds, there were very few places for men to socialise and access respite that did not involve the bookies, football, or the pub.
The Scottish model has evolved to offer connections, community, and camaraderie for all men over the age of 18.”
Ronnie, a member of One Dalkeith Men’s Shed, acknowledges the importance of their support:
“I think if you asked anyone, they’d all say the same thing. It’s about supporting each other – it’s a community. Often men are known for not talking a lot. Here, they can have a coffee or a tea and this helps to get people talking. It’s a relaxed environment and male bonding can take place. I get a bit of reset from coming here and I think my wife does as well – it’s a two-way street.”
Michael goes to the Men’s Shed to socialise. In his words:
“I get to talk about things I wouldn’t normally talk about.”
At the moment he is re-covering a chair:
“You have to cut the wood, measure the cloth, staple it on – making sure it doesn’t tear. Sometimes I like coming along just to have a cup of tea! There’s no commitment to attending. If I can’t make it, no-one worries – they may phone and check I’m OK but there is no obligation to come along and that’s what I like. As an unpaid carer you are not the master of your own destiny – as something might happen. It is great to get out of the house, meet with others and get mental stimulation. There’s only so much TV I can watch!”
According to CEO Jason Schroeder, there are over 10,000 ‘Shedders’ attending over 200 Sheds across Scotland in all 32 local authority regions. Men from all backgrounds attend, including unpaid carers, veterans, men who are working, unemployed or retired, widowers and more.
The range of activities has diversified significantly over the years to offer anything from photography and walking groups to music and cooking sessions. Activities are led by the members and their communities. Rather than join for specific activities, some members attend the meetups for a safe space to relax and have a cuppa and blether with friends.
Men’s Sheds are putting men’s health and wellbeing at the forefront, raising awareness, and aiming to move away from the traditional culture of men staying strong and silent.
For over a decade, Men’s Sheds have been helping men in Scotland to improve their mental health by expressing emotions and supporting each other in a friendly community environment which is free of alcohol and drugs. We encourage–– male carers to ‘Head to the Shed’ – see what your local Men’s Shed has to offer! You can find your nearest Shed using the map on the SMSA website.
