Men’s Shed continues to prosper

THE Swords Men’s Shed organisation, a community group for retired men, is looking to expand its operation.

The Men’s Shed idea originated in Australia 20 years ago with the aim of uniting older men who are often said to be reluctant to show emotion.

“When men come together, unlike women, they don’t sit down and talk openly with each other but they found in Australia that if men come together to work on something, they’ll talk if they work,” said treasurer and founding member of Swords Men’s Shed, Michael Quinn.

The shed aims to cater to the growing population of older men in Swords, to prevent isolation and to promote social activity. Some 35 members gather weekly at the shed in the Riasc Centre on Feltrim Road.

Members come together to practice woodwork and various crafts. There is also an imperative social element to the shed.

“We have a social space and social activity because there’ll be members who say don’t want to do some of the stuff in the workshop or only want to do a certain amount,” said Michael. 

In the social space members can sit down and have a cup of tea, read the paper and have a chat with whoever is there.

Michael believes the shed is capable of substantial growth over the coming years. 

“Now we have it up and running, we can see there’s a big need because in the Swords area alone there are 1,600 men over 65 as per the 2011 census. 

“We have certainly demonstrated that there is a huge need so the issue for us now is to find a larger premises.”

The shed is endeavouring to extend its operating times to five days a week from 10am to 4pm.

In addition to working on projects, the group also conducts training programmes in areas such as computers and digital photography and hosts outings for its members. 

The shed plays an important role in the lives of its members. The youngest is in his early 30s while the oldest recruit is 85. The majority of members are over 65. 

“What we’ve found in the 15 months that we’re operating is that the shed has become an important part in the lives of many of our members,” said Michael.  

“I see those members who have lost their partner or spouse or because of the recession, most of their family are abroad and them being retired in those circumstances, they have felt very lonely or isolated. 

“Coming to the shed gives people a place they can go to enjoy and make new friends and develop new interests.” 

Members are required to pay €20 per month to this voluntary organisation. However, the group deals compassionately with members who may not be in a position to afford the fee. 

“We have a fund set aside controlled by one person so that if somebody has a difficulty, they can speak to that person,” Michael added. 

“That person will take money from the fund to subsidise the individual and that’s confidential between the two of them.” 

Those interested in joining the group can contact the branch at swords@menssheds.ie or visit the shed from 10am-4pm, Monday to Wednesday.

Katie O’Neill