A group in Exeter where men can go to form social connections, share skills and combat loneliness is stronger than ever thanks to Hospiscare.
In October 2023, Men in Sheds Exeter was forced to close its doors when financial challenges faced by Age UK Exeter meant that the group could no longer use their premises as a workshop.
All was not lost as last May, the group was given a new home at Hospiscare’s warehouse on the Marsh Barton trading estate.
Men in Sheds member, Peter Pooley, says: “It feels beautiful to be back in business. The relief and happiness we feel is hard to describe.
“Our membership has been able to grow, and we now have over 30 members. We’ve also been able to open on Mondays, so we now run four days a week.
“We work closely with the Hospiscare retail team; they set aside items for us and we repair and refurbish as much as we can and then recycle the rest. Anything we put out in the shops seems to disappear damn fast! It really is a partnership and for every item sold, the proceeds go back to Hospiscare.
“In November, we’d been operating for about six months thanks to Hospiscare and to show our appreciation, we voted to donate £2,000.”
Men in Sheds members Ray and John say ‘cheers’ to the collaboration between Hospiscare and Men in Sheds Exeter
Rhodri Morgan, Director of Retail at Hospiscare, says: “Men in Sheds has become a fantastic asset for Hospiscare. Together we are working to reduce waste via cleaning and restoring items for resale, and this also creates additional revenue for us both. This partnership has brought such positivity and we hope it will continue to grow and develop in the future.”
Peter concludes, “Our members get a sense of fellowship from coming here. It’s a familiar, safe space for men to get on and do something, and of course enjoy a cup of tea and a chat!
“We are always looking for volunteers and tools to renovate. Anyone who is interested should call 07444858992.”
