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Men’s Sheds encourage people to come together to make, repair and repurpose, supporting projects in their local communities.
As a long-time supporter of the UK Men’s Sheds Association (UKMSA), Onduline was honoured to be part of a ground-breaking initiative that saw a Men’s Shed placed in Parliament for a week.
Held on 18th – 22nd March, Portcullis House at the Palace of Westminster became home to ‘The Parliament Shed’, a temporary Men’s Shed to highlight the health, wellbeing and social benefits of community-run Men’s Sheds.
In addition, expert partners from Zero Suicide Alliance, Men’s Health Forum and the Centre for Ageing Better joined the UKMSA to explain the causes and promote the benefits of their work to MPs. Topics included suicide prevention, mental health, men’s health and loneliness.
Paul Duffy, Managing Director of Onduline UK & Ireland, said: “Onduline is proud to support the UK Men’s Sheds Association in this important event at the heart of British governance. The Parliament Shed underscores the vital role Men’s Sheds play in fostering health, wellbeing, and camaraderie within our society.”
Featuring Onduline’s DURO SX 35 premium roofing sheets, ‘The Parliament Shed’ was donated by Wickes, Onduline and Power Sheds and was adapted by Black Park Shed in Buckinghamshire for the week-long event.
“We’re very grateful for support from Onduline to showcase how community projects such as Men’s Sheds can be transformative for shedders, their families and the wider community,” said Charlie Bethel, chief executive officer of UKMSA.
He went on to explain, “Men’s Sheds work because they are a simple concept that people can relate to. Whether it is a shed building bird boxes or mending football boots and bikes to give to disadvantaged children in their communities, you can see a real pride and sense of achievement in everyone who comes through the door of a Shed. 96% of Shedders felt less lonely after joining a Men’s Shed.”
To find out more about Onduline, visit www.onduline.co.uk