COMMUNITY SCHEME RECEIVES A SHED LOAD OF SUPPORT FROM WORCESTERSHIRE DEVELOPER

Leading developer Barratt Homes is continuing its support for Bromsgrove-based project, Men in Sheds, with a further donation to its Shed Share Scheme.

As part of its commitment to support local charities and organisations in and around the areas in which it builds, the developer has renewed its sponsorship for the scheme which helps people to stay connected and active.

Age UK Bromsgrove, Redditch and Wyre Forest launched its annual Shed Share Sponsorship Scheme in 2018 to help support the cost of running and developing its much-valued group. For £100, local businesses and organisations can sponsor a ‘Shed Share’ for a year. In return, sponsors will receive a Shed Share certificate, as well as having their support recognised in a variety of ways by Age UK BRWF and the Shedders.

Men In Sheds, which was originally introduced to the UK by Age UK Cheshire in 2008, aims to tackle loneliness and social isolation in older men, where retirement can mean loss of status and contact.

The Shed provides a space where anybody, including men or women, can work on DIY projects or furniture reclamation and get involved in some community spirit, whilst also having fun.

The first ‘Bromsgrove Shed’ was set up in The Craft Centre at Stoke Prior in December 2015 before the group moved to its current larger premises on the Metal and Ores Industrial estate, in April 2016.

Jo Hughes, from Age UK BRWF, said: “We are so very grateful to Barratt Homes for its continued support for Bromsgrove Men in Sheds. From the calls that Age UK Bromsgrove, Redditch and Wyre Forest receives, we know that initiatives like Bromsgrove Men in Sheds have never been needed more. But without the support of local businesses and the community, the group would not be able to continue, so thank you Barratt Homes!”

Tanya Silk, Sales Director at Barratt Homes West Midlands, said: “As a leading developer, it is important we support and improve the surrounding communities in which we build, through collaborations with organisations and charities in the area.

“That’s why we were delighted to continue our support for Men in Sheds with this donation and ultimately, aid the maintenance and development of the charity.”