Morris Lubricants has made a significant commitment to support the Shrewsbury Men’s Shed, pledging a monthly donation for the next two years. This initiative comes after a visit by executive chairman Andrew Goddard, who was deeply impressed by the work being done to improve the lives of men in the community.
Located at the West Midlands Showground in Berwick Road, Shrewsbury, the Men’s Shed was established just over four years ago. The group transformed a set of dilapidated stables into a functional 270 square meters of workshops and social space, relying solely on the time and skills of dedicated volunteers. Currently, the shed serves 140 members who come together weekly to foster a sense of community and support.
The Shrewsbury Men’s Shed addresses various needs, providing companionship for the bereaved, individuals with dementia, and men facing cancer diagnoses or personal struggles. It offers an environment where woodturners, metalworkers, engineers, and horticulturists can utilize their skills while also passing on their knowledge to others. The shed plans to expand its offerings to include cooking classes and arts and crafts for those with mobility challenges.
Running costs for the shed amount to £1,200 per month, funded through a combination of member subscriptions, hire fees, sales of handcrafted items, donations, and grants. Recent projects include the refurbishment of Percy Thrower’s old greenhouse for plant cultivation, the creation of infrastructure for a seasonal ferry service across the River Severn, and the restoration of cast iron bins and benches for Shrewsbury Town Council.
Chairman of the Men’s Shed, Simon Rouse, emphasized the importance of their work: “We are helping to prevent suicide, tackling loneliness, and assisting men in socializing and making new friends. Our members feel they have a role and purpose in life, contributing value to the community.”
The group has also become a prominent social prescriber organization in Shropshire, receiving referrals from local cancer support teams, community mental health groups, and housing support services. Rouse noted that their membership spans ages 19 to 92, with most members being retired men, many of whom are grappling with the loss of loved ones.
The support from Morris Lubricants is particularly meaningful. Rouse expressed gratitude for the company’s contribution, which not only includes financial support but also the provision of oils, lubricants, and other maintenance fluids.
Andrew Goddard remarked on the significance of the Men’s Shed, stating, “It’s a great facility here in the heart of the town, doing fantastic work to support men’s mental health. Many of our ex-employees would benefit from joining, especially those who have spent their careers in manual work.”
He highlighted the shed’s role in alleviating loneliness among bereaved men, noting that social networks often diminish after retirement. Morris Lubricants is proud to support such an essential charitable initiative that positively impacts the community.
