Storeroom2010’s community project, Cowes Men’s Shed, is celebrating after being awarded £254,459 in funding from The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest funder of community activity in the UK.
The Shed hosted its first event since December 2019 and celebrated the good news by holding an open day and buffet for members and those curious to find out more about what goes on.
The funding will be used to target social isolation across the Isle of Wight by continuing to provide a carpentry workshop, craft room, IT area and gardens with polytunnels, raised beds and seating to watch the red squirrels and birds from.
111 members
Having opened in May 2018, the Shed welcomes its 111 members from across the Island to create, converse and connect.
The Shed is open Monday to Friday, 10am–3pm and also welcomes women (who currently make up 25 per cent of its membership).
Will allow the Shed to continue to take on community projects
This new National Lottery funding will allow the Shed to continue to take on community projects for other charities and good causes, of which dozens across the Island have already been helped since May 2018.
Cowes Men’s Shed also provides a safe, relaxed environment for people to do something practical and to pick up new skills. Not only do members get to enjoy tea and biscuits and work on their own projects, but they can also help others.
Positive impact on mental and physical health
In a recent anonymous survey of members, 94 per cent of respondents felt that attending the Shed has had a positive impact on their mental health and 92 per cent felt it has had a positive effect on their physical health.
The Shed has a fully qualified Project Leader on hand during opening hours to assist and facilitate the running of the Shed.
Martin: Valuable work we do recognised
The Project Leader, Adam Martin, said,
“Thanks to the National Lottery Community Fund for recognising the valuable work we do across the Isle of Wight and thanks to National Lottery players who have helped us improve the quality of life of many people, as well as helping other charities and good causes and putting smiles on faces.”
News shared by Adam on behalf of Cowes Men’s Shed. Ed
