Kinlough Men’s Shed was established in May 2016 at the hand of Enda McGloin, chair of the social organisation. It met initially to assess interest in starting a men’s shed in Kinlough and the response was positive, with over 20 men expressing interest.

“I have been a member since mid-last year,” says Liam Winters, who is treasurer of Kinlough Men’s Shed, located in Co Leitrim. “The biggest issue from the outset was a premises. Enda had made quite a number of enquiries and we had a couple of offers.”

One of those offers came from local man James Early, who had a shed lying vacant. He kindly agreed to a rent-free arrangement, and the members of the shed are responsible for the maintenance. They recently put in a cement floor and continue to make functional improvements to the space.

Maintaining the Men’s Shed requires financial support, and Liam praises Enda for organising fundraisers, and for taking the time to fill out funding applications. “Enda organised a couple of fundraisers before I got involved and he had been preparing applications for funding to the HSE and the county council. The County Council did come through and the HSE,” says Liam.

Social inclusion and tackling issues such as isolation and depression, are the foundation on which Men’s Shed’s are built, but every shed is as unique as the men involved. “Some of the people involved have quite unique skills. One member is an expert in glass work and also in metal work. Another guy is a carpenter. There is a good mix.”

The men want to learn new skills from each other, and plan to undertake group and individual projects, cooperating with local groups including Tidy Towns, the elderly and playground facilities. However, at the present moment the focus is centralised on getting the work to the shed completed, as they hope to be finished by Christmas.

If you require further details on Kinlough Men’s Shed or how to join, contact Liam on 087 917 5001 or email kinloughmensshed@gmail.com.