Advent Calendar Day 14

Around 5 years ago, Fleetwood resident Tony came to a Healthier Fleetwood meeting and said he wanted to start a group for men, somewhere welcoming and safe for them to talk and support each other. Over the next few months with the help of other residents and many local agencies the idea took shape and the Fleetwood Men's Shed was born.

From their first meeting, attended by just 2 people, the Men’s Shed soon grew and held weekly get-togethers at The Pavilion, Memorial Park. The guys attending looked forward to the chance to chat and share experiences, guest speakers came along with advice and signposting to specialist help from professionals and the voluntary sector.

Jump to now and the Men’s Shed is a pillar of the community and thanks to a generous donation, have their own premises to meet and host the great work of other local groups for men and women including The Chill Lounge and Fleetwood Autism Buddies.

A key partner in Fleetwood Together, the Town’s response to the Covid pandemic, they are now involved in many projects and initiatives that make a real difference to the community. Among their many events is a drop-in advice session, woodworking, social nights and a Wednesday Wander. Tomorrow, Thursday, is the Friendly Lunch, a free hot meal and a drink open to anyone in need, or who just need a place to spend an hour or two in good company.

While Tony continues to support the community as a co-founder of a new group S.P.A., the Men’s Shed has come a long way since his first idea.

Now a registered charity and led by a committee of trustees including caring local residents like Dave, Richard and Rob they are looking to the future with exciting plans to be announced next year.

Thank you to the Fleetwood Men’s Shed for everything you have done for the residents of our Town and for what’s to come.

Contact the Men's Shed through their Facebook page or call 07864 065764 to find out more and get involved.