Men’s Sheds dotted throughout Westmeath are being encouraged to apply to a national funding pot of €500,000 to support their good work, Longford/Westmeath Deputy Peter Burke TD has outlined.
This capital funding provides small grants to individual Men’s Sheds in order to enable them to purchase equipment or carry out minor works to improve their shed. As part of this measure, provision for almost €19,000 will be provided to the 13 Men’s Sheds in Westmeath, pending successful applications for the funding.
Reflecting on the announcement, Deputy Peter Burke TD, highlighted the communications effect which Men's Sheds have for their members.
“Men’s Sheds are a worldwide movement which encourages men to talk about their feelings in order to improve mental health and wellbeing. Local Men’s Sheds here in Westmeath create a space where men can discuss health issues and emotions while engaging in purposeful activities.
"The sheds are in urban and rural areas across the country and promote the health and wellbeing of members by combating issues such as loneliness and isolation, while creating a culture where men can discuss their thoughts and feelings without stigma. They are a great example of a positive community based organisation that promotes good citizenship through good works," the Deputy commented.
Encouraging members to apply for this funding, the Deputy noted that the closing date for doing same was August 31.
"There are currently 13 Men’s Sheds in Westmeath of which I am aware and they encouraged to apply for the funding of €18,841 which has been allocated to Westmeath County Council. It is essential that the individual local sheds apply for this funding. Applications will have to be made to the Westmeath Local Community Development Committee (LCDC ) by 31st August 2018," Deputy Burke concluded.
