About Shed
January 2018
Due to the growing success of the North Belfast Men’s Shed, the social organisation is moving to larger premises in the new year. The main priority for the move was ensuring that the shed could be easily accessed by the men.
“We are moving and expanding the premises, double the size,” says Geraldine, Co – Ordinator of the shed. “It’s very important that we stay in the area so that anyone in the local community can come to the shed, which is why we are moving to Duncairn Gardens.” Established in 2012 North Belfast Men’s Shed formed as a result of research findings that showed there was a high percentage of deprivation and loneliness in the area, particularly among men of 55 and over. The shed has become a place of importance within the community and was recently crowned as North Belfast’s most inspiring project for 2017. “That’s what makes us stand out from the rest,” says Geraldine
North Belfast Men’s Shed has developed into a thriving enterprise. The men make and sell their own products. “We would sell our goods in local squares and online. We made wooden lanterns for a charity called PIPS and they used those lanterns for suicide awareness day and we have made buddy benches. We are also very involved in the community. We would go into care homes and day centres and the men would share their skills with the local residents,” says Geraldine
The shedders’ good nature is seen inside the shed too. The shed is a place where men can talk to each other about different things that are going on in their lives. If they have any kind of issues they support each other through it. There have been men within the shed who have experienced bereavement in their family and if someone was unwell and in hospital they would get a visit. North Belfast Men’s Shed is open each day from 10 am – 4 pm. New members are always welcome. For more information please see contact details listed or alternatively you can call IMSA at 01 8916150