Irish Men's Shed

Why it matters

Men in Ireland are often more likely to experience isolation and loneliness than women; they often have poorer health outcomes and are more likely to die from suicide and other preventable causes. Most men have learned from our culture that they don’t talk about feelings and emotions. There has been little encouragement for men to take an interest in their own health and wellbeing. Because men don’t often make a fuss about their problems, these problems have consistently been either ignored or swept under the mat by both our health system and our modern society. It’s time for a change and the Men’s Shed movement is a powerful tool in helping men to once again become valued and valuable members of our community.

The Background

The Men's Shed movement began in Australia and has since spread internationally. While endeavoring to engage men through community development, John Evoy travelled to Australia and was introduced to the Men’s Sheds concept which had been developing there since the early 1990’s. The Australian Men’s Sheds Association was later established in 2007 and in 2009 John made his first trip down under to visit their Sheds. He returned inspired and determined to set up the Irish Men’s Sheds Association. There are now over 200 Men’s Sheds in Ireland with Men’s Sheds in several other European countries.

What you can do

There are hundreds of Men's Sheds in Ireland, you can find your local one and contact them here or learn how to start a new one in your local community by downloading our 5 step guide below. Once you're ready to go get in touch to Start Your Own