Men in Sheds aided by grant from Foundation

By Mark Stevens
8/3/23

Exeter’s ‘Men in Sheds’ project has been given a significant boost thanks to a grant from the Exeter Chiefs Foundation.

Based in Wardrew Road, St Thomas, ‘Men in Sheds’ is a space where retired tradesmen are able to come together to use their skills to upcycle and recycle old and donated tools.

Through an application submitted by Age UK Exeter, the Foundation were able to fully support a request for £2,492 to assist in the renovation of their current workspace.

Thanks to the backing of the Foundation, the ‘Men in Sheds’ project will not only benefit through creating volunteering and employment opportunities to local older people, but increase local footfall for people wishing to buy hand-crafted and recycled tools and woodwork.

Nicky Flynn from Age UK Exeter said: “Having the support of the Foundation will ensure that a local city-based charity is not only more financially resilient, but will also create a fantastic, community asset which will enable us to hire more space to local groups.”

Age UK Exeter have been based within the city for over 30 years and provide support and information to Over 50s on topics such as: income and welfare benefits, social care, local services, tradespeople and community groups and activities.

Chairman of the Exeter Chiefs Foundation, Tony Rowe CBE, recently popped along to the facility in St Thomas to take a closer look at how the funds granted have been spent.