The Senedd Cymru welcomed a host of Shedders this week, as the Men’s Shed movement in Wales took centre stage at a special “Let’s Talk Sheds” event. UKMSA, Shedders, supporters, funders and Members of the Senedd came together to celebrate the incredible impact of Sheds across Wales — meeting, mixing and, of course, talking all things Shed.
Hosted by Huw Irranca-Davies MS, Deputy First Minister for Wales and a long-time supporter of the movement, the gathering was an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the vital role Sheds play in supporting men’s health, wellbeing and community connection across Wales. Throughout the afternoon, politicians and partners were able to meet Shedders and hear first-hand about the difference Sheds make in their own communities every day.
In his welcome, Huw reflected on personally discovering the Shed movement more than a decade ago and spoke about the powerful way Sheds create spaces where men can connect while sharing practical activities.
“…when you’ve got a piece of woodwork in your hand, or you’re building something, or following through on an activity, or just doing things, that suddenly frees you up to chat about pressures that are on your mind”
UKMSA CEO, Caroline Ellis, also spoke at the event, thanking Shedders, supporters and funders who have helped the movement grow across Wales. Caroline spoke movingly about the strength of Welsh communities and the powerful concept of hiraeth — that deep sense of belonging and connection to place that resonates so strongly with what Sheds are all about.
“…that welcome, that sense of belonging, is there in every single [Shed] but every shed is vastly different in lots of different ways…”
With more than 100 Sheds open or in development across Wales, the movement continues to grow, creating welcoming spaces where people can connect, share skills, support one another and contribute to their communities.
Events like this offer a valuable opportunity to bring together the people who make the movement possible – from volunteers and Shedders to supporters, partners and policymakers – and to encourage even more communities to get involved.
A special thank you goes to Robert Visintainer and Simon Poole, who support Men’s Sheds across Wales, as well as the Shedders who attended and shared their experiences of Shed life.
Diolch yn fawr to everyone who joined us at the Senedd and helped make the event such a meaningful celebration of connection, conversation and community spirit.
Explore the photo gallery below to see some highlights from the event — click through the images to view the full set.
