Hillside Men's Shed

Public benefits

The direct benefits which flow from purpose: (A) include a reduction in loneliness and isolation, improvement in mental health, wellbeing and cognitive function as well as providing a sense of belonging. Participating in such projects promotes creativity and encourages the individual to learn new skills, keeping them active and mentally

stimulated. Completing projects gives the individual a strong sense of accomplishment, improving their mental health and wellbeing thus making it more likely that they will continue to engage in group activities and keep connected to those in the group. (B) is an overall improvement in health. Studies have shown that loneliness and social isolations are associated with higher risks of health problems such as heart disease, depression and cognitive decline. By increasing social networks and reducing isolation by taking part in activities provided by Hillside Men’s Shed, we hope to in turn reduce the risks associated with being socially isolated. (C) include improving brain health, memory, mental health and wellbeing. Learning new skills and participating in other forms of education can give the participant motivation put their new skills into practice, have a greater feeling of self-worth, boost confidence and foster relationships and connections with other group participants. It also encourages curiosity and the participant is more likely to become more independent, self-reliant, develop their skills further or undertake more training in a different area. (D) is the overall improvement in health and a reduction in the health risks associated with social isolation and loneliness. In an area which is struggling to recruit GPs and is lacking in local health care services, Hillside Men’s Shed provides a place which aims to improve mental health and wellbeing which GPs and other professionals can refer patients to as well as alleviate pressures on these services by providing a place for men to come and improve their health. These benefits will be evidenced through consultations and regular feedback from service users as well as analysing the reasons why men are accessing the service through their sign up forms. No harm will arise from the purposes stated. The charity's beneficiaries are all men over the age of 18 years in Kilkeel and the surrounding areas. There is no private benefit flowing from this purpose.

What your organisation does

In order to carry out the charitable purposes, the Management Committee has the power to: a. Raise funds, receive grants and donations. b. Apply funds to carry out the work of the charity. c. Co-operate with and support other charities with similar charitable purposes. d. Do anything which is lawful and necessary to achieve the charity's purposes.