How the Chesterton House Foundation is Supporting Men & Women in Sheds

At the Chesterton House Foundation, we believe that wellbeing is about much more than financial security – it’s about connection, purpose, and belonging. That’s why we’re proud to support Charnwood Men & Women in Sheds, a wonderful local project run by Age UK Leicestershire & Rutland that helps people over 50 in Loughborough stay active, social, and creative.

Thanks to a £1,000 grant from our Foundation, the Shed can continue to offer a safe, welcoming space for its members, helping to cover core costs such as rent for the workshop premises and ensuring its doors stay open to all who want to take part.

What is the Shed?

Image from bbc.co.uk

Charnwood Men & Women in Sheds is essentially a bigger, friendlier version of the typical garden shed. Furnished with benches, tools, and materials, it’s a place where people can make, mend, and restore – using reclaimed wood, newly learnt techniques, or skills from years gone by. Members put their hands to everything from carpentry and metalwork to crafts, pottery, and even building wheelchair-friendly picnic benches.

But the real heart of the Shed isn’t the projects, it’s the people. Some members are referred through health or social care professionals, but many simply join to share hobbies, pick up new skills, or enjoy good company. Whatever the reason, the Shed is a space where friendships are made, problems are shared, and life’s ups and downs are supported by a network of peers.

Why it Matters

For members, the Shed is more than a workshop – it’s a lifeline. It reduces isolation, boosts confidence, and offers a sense of achievement and purpose. It’s a chance to connect, to learn, and to enjoy being part of a community.

The Impact of Support

With its ethos of recycling, keeping costs for members minimal, and making every penny count, funding goes a long way. Our grant helps ensure the Shed remains open and accessible to everyone who could benefit, supporting the long-term sustainability of this unique local project that is genuinely transforming lives.

We’re delighted to be part of their story and look forward to seeing the Shed continue to thrive.

If you’re interested in joining the Shed, you can find out more information on their website. Members of all skill levels are welcome!

If you’d like to support the Chesterton House Foundation, you can do so in a number of ways, including setting up a regular donation. To find out more, visit our Foundation website page here.