The Callander Area Men's Shed is set to launch in the coming weeks, aiming to address loneliness and social isolation among men in rural Stirling. The project, in development since 2018, has secured a donated container unit and planning permission to host it at Callander Golf Club.
Project Background and Goals
The Men's Shed movement, which began in Aberdeenshire in 2013, has grown across the UK, offering men a space to connect and improve their wellbeing. Rural Stirling has been a gap in this network, but the new shed aims to change that. Chairman Tim Crone highlighted the urgency: "Suicide is the biggest killer of men in the UK under the age of 50 above the likes of cancer, so the issues the Shed hopes to tackle need addressed."
Community Support and Progress
Local businesses and residents have backed the initiative. The golf club offered free rent in exchange for collaborative projects, and a building contractor donated a former welfare container unit. Planning permission has been granted, and the shed is expected to be operational within two weeks. Initial meetings attracted around 24 men, indicating strong local interest.
Tim Crone noted: "There have been good turnout at the initial meetings with around 24 men there and there does seem a need and want for it locally." The shed aims to welcome members from surrounding villages, emphasizing its role as a rural community hub.
Next Steps and How to Get Involved
The group is now focusing on building donations and membership. Challenges include sorting out insurance, but support from the Scottish Men's Sheds Association has been crucial. For those interested, more information is available at callandershed.org.
