Penarth Men’s Shed, which has established a committee and is developing a constitution, offers companionship, practical activities and informal peer support to men in Penarth and its surrounding areas.
The group provides a space where members can meet regularly, share skills and talk openly, helping to tackle isolation and improve wellbeing.
The initiative is part of the wider Men’s Sheds movement, which began in Australia in the 1990s and has since spread across the UK. According to the UK Men’s Sheds Association (UKMSA), there are now more than 1,000 sheds nationwide, aimed particularly at reducing loneliness and supporting mental health among men, especially those who are retired or living alone.
Members of the Penarth group recently gathered at Penarth Yacht Club to hear from fellow member Neil Davis, who shared insights and experiences from his career in the film and television industry.
Organisers say sessions like these are designed to spark conversation and encourage members to connect over shared interests.
Men’s Health Awareness Week, marked annually in June, highlights issues including mental health, loneliness and preventable physical conditions.
Campaigners often stress that men are statistically less likely to seek help or engage with support services — a point widely reported by organisations such as the Men’s Health Forum, although figures can vary depending on the measure used.
The Penarth group hopes the awareness week will encourage more local men to come forward and get involved.
For details on how to join, the group can be found on Facebook or contacted via email at penarthmensshed@yahoo.com.
