Teens win funding boost for Men's Shed

Two teenagers have won £4000 funding for Forth Valley Men's Shed, supporting older men in their community.

Molly Robinson and Aimee Cook, who are both 15 and from Clackmannanshire, chose to support their local shed as part of the Youth and Philanthropy Initiative.

Their presentation, which highlighted how the Shed tackles loneliness and isolation in the community, impressed judges in the nationwide schools competition. They won the prize for the Shed from the Your Community Fund.

Forth Valley Men’s Shed, supported by Age Scotland, is one of more than 100 similar sheds in Scotland. Based at Ward Street, Alloa, it provides a space to meet and share hobbies such as woodwork and DIY. Although primarily aimed at retired men, it is open to people of all ages.

The funding will go towards rent and equipment for the Shed, ensuring it is able to open next month as Covid-19 restrictions are eased.

Molly, from Tullibody, and Aimee, from Sauchie, are both starting Fourth Year at Lornshill Academy. They worked together on the virtual presentation during the lockdown, with the support of their teacher. The girls had already visited the Shed to meet members and see its work.

Molly said: “We wanted to choose a local charity, and we thought that not many people were aware of the Men’s Shed. When we visited, they were so welcoming and they have great facilities. Many people in the area have struggles with mental health, so it’s important to have a space like this.

“When we heard we’d won, we were over the moon. There were a lot of schools taking part, so we didn’t expect it at all. I hope this will give them a boost and help them with rent and other costs.”

Graham Reece, an Age Scotland Ambassador and Chairman of Forth Valley Men’s Shed, said: “When Molly called and told me they’d won, you could have knocked me down with a feather. It will make a huge difference to the Shed. This will allow us to keep paying our rent as well as buy equipment and materials. Our members make all kinds of things, mainly out of wood, from pens and bowls to guitars.

“The Shed brings together men from all backgrounds, and is especially valued by those who live alone. The last few months have been difficult, but we have started meeting in a local park to make sure everybody is doing OK. We’re hoping to start using the Shed again later this month.”

The Youth and Philanthropy Initiative is a nationwide active citizenship programme, encouraging young people to get involved with their community and find out about local social issues. Teams have to deliver a presentation to a panel of judges, with the most persuasive pitch winning funding for their particular group.

Brian Sloan, Chief Executive of Age Scotland, said: “Congratulations and a huge thank you to Molly and Aimee for their fantastic work. Their efforts will make a real difference to older people in and around Alloa, and help secure the Shed’s future at this challenging time.

“We’ve been inspired by the kindness, generosity and creativity of young people throughout Scotland, who are concerned about the impact of coronavirus on older generations. More young people than ever are reaching out and looking for ways to support older people who might be feeling lonely and isolated as a result of the pandemic and lockdown.”