More Than a Workshop. A Place to Belong.
World Mental Health Day (10th October) is an opportunity to celebrate one of the greatest strengths of Men’s Sheds: supporting health, wellbeing, friendship and connection.
At UK Men’s Sheds Association, we often talk about “health by stealth”. People don’t usually come to a Shed looking for a wellbeing programme. They come to make something, repair something, learn a skill, have a brew, or spend time with others. Yet along the way, something powerful happens.
Sheds create opportunities for shoulder-to-shoulder conversations. The kind that happen naturally while working on a project, sharing experiences, or simply spending time together. These informal moments can help reduce loneliness, build confidence, and improve wellbeing.
For many Shedders, their Shed provides:
- Friendship and social connection
- Purpose and routine
- Support through life’s challenges
- Opportunities to learn and contribute
- A welcoming community where everyone belongs
Sometimes the most important thing a Shed offers is simply knowing that someone is there.
Looking After Ourselves and Each Other
World Mental Health Day is a reminder that wellbeing matters. Whether you’re a Shed member, volunteer or supporter, taking time to connect with others, stay active, learn new skills and talk openly can make a real difference.
To help Sheds support wellbeing, we’ve gathered a range of free resources covering:
- Mental wellbeing in later life
- Loneliness and social connection
- Retirement and purpose
- Stress, sleep and resilience
- Dementia awareness
- Mental health awareness and training
You’ll also find information about free courses, wellbeing guides and upcoming learning opportunities that may be useful for both Shed members and volunteers.
Free Wellbeing Resources
A range of free resources are available for Shedders, volunteers and staff.
Age UK
Practical information covering:
- Loneliness and isolation
- Bereavement
- Anxiety and depression
- Emotional wellbeing in later life
This is particularly relevant for many shedders who may be retired, bereaved or experiencing social isolation.
NHS Every Mind Matters
Helpful tools and advice including:
- Personalised Mind Plans
- Sleep support
- Stress and anxiety management
- Everyday wellbeing tips
The free “Mind Plan” can be useful for shed members wanting practical advice without feeling they are accessing formal mental health services.
Mental Health Foundation
Resources include:
- World Mental Health Day materials
- Wellbeing guides
- Conversation starters
- Tea & Talk resources
A Men’s Shed could host a simple Tea & Talk session around World Mental Health Day and use these materials. [mentalhealth.org.uk]
Mental Health UK
Free downloadable resources including:
- Mental wellbeing guides
- Conversation tools
- Stress management information
- Wellbeing worksheets
These are easy to print and distribute to shed members.
Learning Opportunities
Members and volunteers may also wish to explore free online learning opportunities, including: These courses can help improve understanding, confidence and awareness when supporting others in the community.
Fully funded through the UK Government’s Adult Skills Fund (ASF). No cost for eligible learners.
- Mental Health Awareness – Free Online Mental Health Awareness Course | Level 2 Certificate
- Mental Health First Aid – Free Online Mental Health First Aid Course with Certificate
- Dementia Awareness – Free Online Dementia Care Course with Certificate
- Self-Harm and Suicide Prevention Awareness –Free Online Self-harm and Suicide Prevention and Awareness Course