Pontypridd Men’s Shed was recently awarded Shed Partnership of the Year 2024 by UK Men’s Sheds Association (UKMSA) as part of the Shed Awards held on International Men’s Day (November 19). The Shed Awards celebrate the Shed movement by recognising the Sheds and individuals that make a difference within the local community.
Established in March 2022, Pontypridd Men’s Shed began with just 11 local men and has since flourished within the community, now boasting 49 members. The group was set up to provide a safe space and shelter for men of all ages and backgrounds in local venues, including their main base in Treforest, Pontypridd Museum, and their new woodworking workshop in Trallwn.
Robert Visintaine, Men’s Sheds Cymru Manager/UKMSA, said: “It is heartwarming to see Pontypridd Men’s Shed receive the recognition they truly deserve. This award reflects the transformative power of men coming together to support one another, building resilience and fostering connections within their communities.
“The partnerships they’ve cultivated demonstrate what can be achieved when local organisations unite for a common purpose, and their impact extends far beyond the Shed. We celebrate their success as a beacon of the Shed movement in Wales and an inspiration to others across the country.”
Rob Lloyd, Chair of UKMSA, said: “Being part of the Awards Panel for this event is a huge privilege and allowed me to see the extraordinary strength and breadth of the various nominations. In an outstanding field, Pontypridd Shed were deserving winners and should feel immensely proud of what they have achieved since their inception.
“Having visited them myself, earlier in the year, I can testify to what a great group of individuals they are but even more so how collectively they make a difference not only to each other but to their wider community – it’s the very essence of what Men’s Sheds are about.”
The award was given in recognition of the shed’s numerous partnerships that work harmoniously together, including collaborations with Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, Pontypridd Town Council, and other community groups such as local primary schools, a film company, and the University of South Wales. These partnerships have enabled the Shed to produce animations, run events, and even develop a WW2 Garden, showcasing the power of community collaboration.
Adrian Dumphy, Secretary of Pontypridd Men’s Shed, said: “We are thrilled to be recognised for our efforts in building a supportive community for local men. Our shed provides a vital space for men to connect, share experiences, and support one another.”
Pontypridd Men’s Shed host weekly sessions including their Monday Social Meeting which is also for women, the Wednesday Social Meeting (for men only), creative writing and podcast sessions on Wednesdays and Fridays, and daily woodworking workshop sessions focused on traditional shed activities at the new premises in Trallwn. The opening of the workshop has allowed members to take on small community projects which will support small income generation to help sustain and support the future of the Shed.
Members who have faced challenges express immense gratitude for the positive impact the Shed has had on their mental health and wellbeing. The Shed also disseminates important information and advice on digital inclusion, finances, benefit claims, scams, and health.
Cllr Gareth Caple, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care and Older Persons Champion, said: “The work done by Pontypridd Men’s Shed is invaluable to the local community, especially during Men’s Health Month.
“Initiatives such as this are crucial for promoting mental health and wellbeing among men, ensuring that they can access the support they need.
“Receiving the award for Shed Partnership of the Year 2024 at the Shed Awards demonstrates the vast positive impact that this initiative has had on the local community.”
For more information about Pontypridd Men’s Shed, please visit their webpage
For more information on the Shed Awards, please visit: UK Men's Shed Awards 2024 - UKMSA Men's Sheds Association
Age Friendly Rhondda Cynon Taf
Pontypridd Men’s Shed is one of many age-friendly initiatives in place across County Borough. Rhondda Cynon Taf Council was recognised as part of the WHO Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities earlier this year. This network was established in 2010, connecting cities, communities, and organisations globally.
Members of the network commit to making their communities excellent places to grow older through improvements to age-friendly environments, as well as promoting healthy ageing and a good quality of life for older residents.
You can find out more about the Council’s membership here: Age Friendly Rhondda Cynon Taf | Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council
Posted on 04/12/2024