National recognition for Westbury Shed
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WESTBURY Shed was awarded a special national commendation for its work to improve the health and wellbeing of local people in 2021.
Martin McGiff at Shed of the Year awards 2022.
Westbury Shed treasurer, Martin McGiff, was presented the award in the category of Work in Health and Wellbeing Impact in 2021 at the national Shed of the Year awards ceremony that was held at the University of Worcester Arena on 25th June.
Martin says the award was presented to Westbury Shed partly down to their work to help improve the eyesight of one of their members, Norman Winter, earlier in the year.
Martin added, “I wanted to emphasise that whilst this award is recognition by the Men’s Shed organisation, Westbury has an inclusive policy, welcoming all members of the community.”
John Latchford, chairman of UK Men’s Sheds Association said, “This year is the first year back since 2019 and the field of nominations is incredibly strong. I congratulate Westbury Shed for the quality of their nomination and this is why we shortlisted them for the award. My sincere best wishes to them and all the Sheds this year – it is a really exciting field.”
Men’s Sheds are shown to reduce loneliness by 96%, anxiety by 75% and depression by 89%. Westbury Shed say that 97% of Shedders make new friends on joining a Shed and 88% feel more connected to the community.
Westbury Shed say, “Several projects around the town and surrounding villages have been undertaken with members also having the opportunities to work on personal projects both large and small, from repairing clocks and lawnmowers, upcycling furniture to making Christmas decorations and garden ornaments.
“The awards ceremony gave the opportunity for Shed members from all areas represented to share their recent experiences. Discussions evidenced that the pandemic has had a significant impact on member attendance at their workshops, but also evidenced that those members attending had benefitted greatly from their shared experiences both physically and emotionally, noting that the benefits of shared experience cannot be underestimated.”
Westbury Shed is based at the Westbury Community Project off Eden Vale Road and whilst there are some short-term strategic changes taking place, Shed is open for business.
If you want to try your hand at a new skill, need a workshop where you can take on or complete projects or share your knowledge and experience please come along and take a look at what’s on offer. You can check out The Shed on social media or ring 07918 681270 or 07308 150577 to discuss the best times to visit.
