Sheds are mainly ‘grassroots’ community activities that come about in response to shared needs.
These have mostly been for men to access tools, workbenches, skills and opportunities to make and mend in the company of others.
Gardening, computing, electronics and other activities have been included according to members’ interests.
The UK Men’s Sheds Association (UKMSA) regard a Shed as the group, whether or not it has a base for activity.
Sheds bring health benefits by encouraging physical and mental activity, and improved wellbeing by providing an enjoyable way to stay socially integrated in local communities, by being creative, and learning or passing on skills.
Whilst most Sheds are for men, about a third involve women. There are now also some all women Sheds.
Almost all Sheds do woodworking if only because of the availability of tools and materials.
Across the country, Sheds are also engaged in metalworking, electronics, 3D printing, model building, bicycle repairs, upcycling and repurposing, gardening and conservation work.
One Shed even built its own full-scale roadworthy electric car!