Donaghmore (Down) men's shed

Public benefits

What are the direct benefits flowing from your organisation's purposes? The benefits which flow from the Men's Shed activities include reduction of social isolation, the improvement of men's mental health through social engagement, the improvement of the men's physical health via proper nutrition, exercise and education and the enhanced wellbeing

of the members and their families, indirectly. Many of the members are retired or approaching retirement and the Shed provides a focus for social involvement and engagement, promotes healthy activities such as growing and gardening, cooking, exercise, woodworking, craft activities etc and encourages continued learning in a relaxed atmosphere through educational walks and talks. The Shed is also an active group in the community contributing to other groups and assisting in many environmental projects. The benefits can be identified through a reduction in social isolation as the members continue to attend on a regular basis, becoming actively involved in projects. The men's families benefit through the increased well-being of their family members, and the wider community benefits through the men's direct involvement in environmental activities. These benefit of these activities can be seen such as litter picks, community garden, etc. The projects will be tailored through regular discussion with, and feedback from, the membership of National Organisations, business and individuals - who also provide feedback and suggestions for possible improvement or future projects. A degree of external oversight is provided through our membership of National Organisations and through liaison with statutory agencies such as Newry, Mourne & Down District Council. How can the benefits identified above be demonstrated? The benefits will be identified through feedback from participants, increased participation from members and the community. Increased skills and qualifications - successful participation in courses and workshops Environmental improvement including cleaner roads, flower boxes, nesting boxes, community garden. Is there any harm arising from any of the purposes? No. Who are the charity's beneficiaries? members - through increased social and community involvement, acquisition of new skills, qualifications. community - environmental projects within the area - community garden, litter picks, etc. Is there any private benefit flowing from any of the purposes? Is it incidental and necessary? The businesses gain a private benefit from the publicity involved, but this is incidental and necessary to the fulfilment of the purpose of the charity.

What your organisation does

Provides the facility for men to meet on weekly basis to talk, socialise or engage in planned activities including workshops, gardening, health awareness, wellbeing, day trips, etc to mitigate issues of mental health, rural isolation, etc.