North Ayrshire Men's Shed to install heating thanks to funding boost

A North Ayrshire community group will be enjoying a warm fuzzy feeling, after receiving a £20,000 funding boost to fit its premises with heating.

The Garnock Valley Men’s Shed took over and renovated a previously derelict depot in Kilbirnie Public Park in 201, but until now have been without central heating.

The group, which brings men together to help them meet new people and tackle loneliness, has now been successful in its application for support from the Council’s Community Investment.

Henry Johnson, Chairperson of Garnock Valley Men’s Shed commented, “We are delighted at the news of securing £20,000 from the Community Investment Fund.

Chairman says funding "couldn't have come at a better time"

“With the colder weather drawing closer, the funding couldn’t have come at a better time as we are currently dependent on portable heaters with expensive running costs.

“We are excited to invest in an intuitive infrared heating system that will allow us to heat rooms only as and when required, so hopefully this will cut down on costs and allow us to become more energy efficient.”

The building has recently undergone extensive roof repairs and the Shedders have worked tirelessly over the last three years to transform the Ladysmith Road building into a vital community asset.

Henry continued, “With the help of the Council and the support of a range of external funders, we have been able to transform the once derelict building into one that no longer has a roof that leaks like a sieve, has running water, double glazing and features a brand new kitchen and reception area that we have built from scratch.

“We have also created a bespoke scale modelling facility for members. All of this could not have taken place without the skills, knowledge and experience of our fantastic team of Shedders.

A "shining example" to the local community

“They really are a shining example of men who know their stuff and who help other men to build their confidence, enhance their skills, improve their mental health and become more socially connected.”

And even with the challenges of the pandemic and associated lockdowns, the Men’s Shed volunteers have still been making a positive impact, keeping in contact with members by running online model classes and delivering model kits to shielding men to do at home as well as building benches for the local football club and allotments.

Councillor Louise McPhater “Men’s Sheds are a crucial pillar of our community which support the Council’s priority to build active and strong communities.

“We are immensely proud to be able to support the vital efforts and community hub of the Shedders here in the Garnock Valley via the Community Investment Fund.”

Good news for the environment too

The installation of the zoned heating system will allow the Shedders to heat rooms only when required and not any more than necessary, helping to support the Council’s Climate Change priority to reduce fossil fuel usage and achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.

Once upgraded, the Ladysmith Road depot will be relaunched as a fully operational men’s mental health and wellbeing facility which will have a significant impact on raising male life expectancy, improving quality of life and connecting men with services and facilities across the Garnock Valley.

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