Volunteers build community shed to relieve loneliness

Volunteers are renovating a barn and building an extension next to it for a kitchen

A community shed where people will be able to take part in woodwork, metalwork and embroidery is being built by volunteers in Derbyshire.

The space on Handley Farm, in Shottle, Belper, is expected to open by Christmas.

It is part of the UK Men’s Sheds Association Network (UKMSA), which aims to improve wellbeing and reduce loneliness by encouraging people to come together to "make, repair and repurpose".

Christopher Warwick-Fisher, patron of the association, said Belper Shed was "going to be a social and creative space for not just men but women too".

Work on building Belper Shed has begun

An empty barn will be renovated to become the workshop, and volunteers are building an extension on the side for a reception and kitchen area.

The use of it was a gift from Handley Farm, which approached the UKMSA about the idea.

Mr Warwick-Fisher said work was in the early stages but the shed already had corrugated steel sides, a roof and windows.

He said: "We wanted to champion some environmental causes, so we've been using donated materials to keep them out of skips and landfill.

"The internal wall is being built out of pallets that we've been donated."

Windows are in place at Belper Shed

He said once it was open, people would be able to make anything from Airfix models to Chippendale style furniture.

"We're getting a forge put in so people can have a go at being a blacksmith.

"Sewing, embroidery - you name it people can do it," he said.

An empty barn is being re-purposed and will become the workshop of Belper Shed

Mr Warwick-Fisher also said it will be a social space, with a log burner and seating area.

"People can come and have a cup of tea and a chat, and just get out and about," he added.

He said he hoped it would be open in time for Christmas.

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