What a year 2025 was. We want to say a huge thank you to everyone who supported UKMSA and the Shed movement. From Shedders and volunteers to partners, funders and friends — a lot was achieved, and all of it accomplished by working shoulder to shoulder. Here is a quick review of a very busy 2025:
The year began with a new chapter for UKMSA, as we announced our new CEO, Caroline Ellis. Since then, our focus has been on strengthening the Shed network, backing what already works locally, and helping the movement continue to grow with confidence.
Health and wellbeing ran through much of the year. In March, three Sheds —Forest Community Shed, Reading Men’s Shed and The Octopus Shed — supported our Wellbeing Video Project, helping capture the everyday reality of Shed life: practical projects, shared laughter, honest conversations and the kettle always on. The films help show, in a very real way, how Sheds support wellbeing.
Summer brought ShedFest, with around 550 people attending, making it a true celebration of creativity, connection and shared learning — and a powerful reminder of the experience and energy across the Shed network.
One of the standout collaborations of the year has been Mission: Shoulder to Shoulder, developed through the Better Drinking, Better Living partnership with Diageo. Built on existing skillsets and ideas Sheds had already shared about wanting to do more in their communities, the project aims to support Sheds with the building and installation of 100 buddy benches across the UK — creating welcoming spaces that encourage conversation and connection.
Partnerships helped turn ideas into action throughout the year. Support from Ronseal expanded to reach up to 300 Sheds, while a new partnership with Wickes opened up fresh opportunities for materials, projects and local engagement.
Celebration was front and centre through the rebranded UK Men’s Sheds Awards. The volume and quality of submissions showcased just how much Sheds are doing — from health and wellbeing projects to environmental work, Armed Forces support and community action.
2025 also marked a landmark moment for men’s health, with the publication of the first-ever Men’s Health Strategy for England. Working closely with Sheds, we were proud to contribute evidence and insight which helped to ensure Men’s Sheds were recognised nationwide as vital, community-led spaces supporting men’s wellbeing.
Sheds have also supported the continued growth of the international Sheds movement, welcoming visitors from Japan and Estonia who spent time with Sheds learning directly from Shedders who shared their experience to help the model grow elsewhere.
The movement continues to grow here in the UK too. As we look ahead, part of our focus is on expanding further, reaching more potential, and continuing to build something special — together.
Thank you for everything you’ve helped make possible in 2025. We can’t wait to see what’s created, built and shared in 2026.