Established in 2012, Shannon Men Shed in Co Clare has made a significant difference to men in the local area who have suffered the loss of a loved one.

“The Men’s Shed is the best thing that has happened to Shannon. A lot of the men who come to the shed have suffered the loss of their wives and partners. They find themselves at home with nothing to do, and it can be very lonely,” says shed chair Christy Collins.

“Women seem to be more capable of getting on with life after the death of a partner, but men become very lost. That is why the shed is so important: it gives men somewhere to go.”

“Some of the men come in for a cup of tea and a chat, which is what the Men’s Shed is all about, but we are also very active. In the past we have helped with the Shannon Festival and the Saint Patrick’s day parade,” says Christy.

“We have completed work for Tidy Towns and we are currently creating six buddy benches for the primary schools. We also donated a seat to the local graveyard as a thank-you gift to the people of Shannon for the help they have given us over the years.”

The shedders love to get out and about and have ventured on various trips, this year they have the capital in their sights. “Last year we went to Spike Island in Co Cork. It was very enjoyable. And this year we have a tour of Croke Park pencilled into our schedule,” says Christy.

Shannon Men Shed is open every Tuesday and Thursday, and new members are always welcome. “Anyone can join, they can phone me or call into the shed, but men can be very bashful coming into a room for the first time, so I would meet them on their own if that is what they would prefer,” says Christy.

“Our shed is a fine set-up, we have four rooms in total and we are in a great location in the industrial estate. We are currently planning alterations to the entrance to make it wheel-chair friendly.”

If you would like more information on Shannon Men Shed contact Christy on 086 171 2200.