Men’s sheds launch strategic plan in Tullow
Frank Morris, chairman of Tullow Men's Shed, speaking at the launch.
TULLOW Men’s Shed was the site of the official launch of the Irish Men’s Sheds Association’s (IMSA) new strategic plan recently.
Deputy Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, who is minister of state for public health, wellbeing and the national drugs strategy, launched the plan with a keynote address, alongside representatives from government, the HSE, local authorities, community organisations, elected representatives, strategic partners and men’s shed members from across Ireland.
The strategic plan sets out what supports are required to ensure that men’s sheds continue to thrive in communities throughout the country. It was developed in consultation with all those involved in making men’s sheds happen.
The movement has become one of Ireland’s most successful community-based responses to social isolation, loneliness and the challenges facing men’s health and wellbeing. More than 450 sheds operate across the country. Every shed is unique, but they all are “an essential part of the social fabric of communities throughout Ireland,” said Enda Egan, IMSA chief executive officer.
The plan discusses how the long-term sustainability of sheds can be supported over the next five years through stronger governance, volunteer development, membership growth, financial resilience and enhanced supports for sheds across Ireland.
It also lays out plans to strengthen IMSA as a national organisation and to expand programmes that improve physical health, mental wellbeing and the social connectedness of members. It says that sheds will lead by example in sustainability, environmental stewardship and community action while contributing to national and global sustainability objectives.
