Rob Lloyd has taken up the reins as Chairman of the UK Men’s Sheds Association (UKMSA) following an extensive and vigorous recruitment process undertaken over the last few months by the Trustees of the Charity.
Rob brings a wealth of knowledge from government organisations that will help Men’s Sheds position themselves as part of every community that needs a Shed. Rob has also been a Trustee of UKMSA and very active in developing new practices and leadership development.
On his appointment Rob said, “I am honoured to take up the position as Chair of UKMSA and look forward to supporting my colleagues, the staff and Sheds in our shared ambition of a healthier and happier society for both men and women. Men’s Sheds have a tremendous impact on communities and the people attending them and I am committed to support more Sheds, more people in Sheds and greater support from UKMSA to all Sheds as we make Sheds a household name. I look forward to working closely with our partners and developing new partnerships to meet our vision and mission.”
John Latchford notified the Board of his intention to step down as Chairman in the summer of last year, however John will continue as a Trustee and contributing to the growth and development of the Men’s Shed movement in the UK. John became Chairman during the first set of lockdowns during the Covid 19 Pandemic and provided leadership during a period where we certainly saw a massive increase in social isolation, loneliness and a rise in mental health challenges.
In thanking John for his dedication and hard work Rob said on behalf of the Trustees, “I pay tribute to John on behalf of all our fellow Trustees and members for his tremendous hard work and steering UKMSA through a period of growth in a rapidly changing landscape. Thank you John and I look forward to your continued dedication and support as a Trustee and Shed Ambassador.”
Whilst John continues as a Trustee, he will also be able to spend more time as a UKMSA Volunteer Ambassador and as Chairman of the Amersham Men’s Shed. John said, “It has been an absolute privilege to be Chairman of UKMSA. The last few years have been challenging and I believe Rob will help lead UKMSA moving forward as the organisation continues to grow and adapt, support more people and communities across the UK. I am also looking forward to focussing my efforts on a number of projects to help support Sheds.”