Central Scotland MSP Graham Simpson visited East Kilbride Men’s Shed in College Milton to congratulate them on securing funding from the National Lottery and for the work they do for the local community. Graham was able to see their expansion plans which enable them to support more older people who are potentially most at risk of social isolation and loneliness.
East Kilbride Men’s Shed is a community organisation aimed at encouraging members of the East Kilbride and surrounding communities to be more socially active. This is achieved through sharing of skills and knowledge with other members to help combat the social isolation commonly found in older men.
Graham Simpson said: “The work that East Kilbride Men’s Shed does is a huge asset to the local community. The group work on projects to help other voluntary organisations including other charities using their skills and expertise. They have helped a number of local groups including Greenbank Childrens woodland project by repairing and making equipment and repairing a dolls house to auction for a charity.
“The Jo Cox Commission on Loneliness estimates that eight million men (of all ages) in the UK feel lonely at least once a week, with nearly three million reporting that it is a daily occurrence. One in ten men said they would not admit to feeling lonely. Camaraderie among men can help combat loneliness and depression.
“Men and women approaching later life need to retain and build their social network among friends, families and interest groups. Local authorities should improve efforts to identify older people who are potentially most at risk of social isolation and loneliness.
“I am delighted that East Kilbride Men’s Shed secured £9,450 in funding from the National Lottery which will be used to improve and extend their premises. This will allow them to reach out to even more isolated older men in East Kilbride. They currently have 48 signed up members, including several women, and I hope they continue to expand to support local people.”
