Community loan for Kenmare Men's Shed

Every crisis throws up at least one clever, innovative idea. The Men’s Shed movement began life in Australia but gained huge traction internationally with the 2008 global downturn.

As with all good ideas, it is a simple concept at heart. The Men’s Shed provides a space where men from all walks of life can work with tools on a project of their own choice. Younger men can learn from older and more skilled members, while those out of work can pick up new skills and stay active.

Some make household implements, some fashion toys. The shed provides the physical space where they hone their physical skills. Crucially it also provides space where the men can talk openly about problems or worries and receive support from the other members.

Skills training, social inclusion and potential mental health issues are all addressed under the one corrugated roof.

The Kenmare Men’s Shed was set up in October 2011 and already boasts a membership of over 20. As the project has developed so has the output, with repairs carried out to wooden estuary boats and a canvas Currach built from scratch.

That success brought its own pressures and meant the group required a larger premises and better equipment. Bigger premises would allow members more space to pursue more diverse projects and help broaden the group’s appeal.

Clann Credo supported the Kenmare Men’s Shed in its move to the new premises as the group was meeting a very obvious social and vocational need in the Kenmare area of Kerry.