Poole Initiative Looking to Expand

A space to socialise and connect, Poole Men’s Shed provides a place for the older generation to learn new skills.

Due to the popularity of the shed, they are reaching maximum capacity, and are looking to expand their facilities.

Being a non-profit organisation, they rely entirely on donations.

Alison Parker, a member of Poole Men’s shed said: “I’ve been involved in the men’s shed for about ten years. We started with a dozen members and now we can’t fit them all in.”

Equipped with machines and tools, for woodworking and other hands-on projects, the members often work on personal or community projects, such as the recently completed bird boxes.

The Men’s Shed organisation was originated in Australia, but quickly expanded overseas.

A huge community, members often visit local sheds whilst travelling around the country.

“I’m staying Poole for the week and I wanted to come down and connect with the local men’s shed. The camaraderie is great and people are accepted for exactly who they are.” Kevin Parry, member of Harlow Hill Men’s Shed in Harrogate, said.

They meet at 10am every Wednesday at the Limelight Centre in Canford Heath, and the regularity of the meet-ups providing the social interactions that are crucial for the members.

“I’ve been here for about eight years thanks to the wife! Us men are renowned for being antisocial, she saw this advert and told me to go here. I don’t want to do anything as i’ve done woodwork all my life, but i’ve come here and haven’t stopped.” A member said.