Frequently Asked Questions ...
What is a Men's Shed? Men’s Sheds are community spaces for men to connect, talk, and create together. The activities are often similar to those found in garden sheds, but enjoyed as part of a group. They help reduce loneliness and isolation, support wellbeing, and—most importantly—they’re fun.
Who runs Church Crookham & Fleet Men’s Shed? Typically, Men’s Sheds in the UK are run by the men who use them, using a bottom up, grassroots approach. This model often leads to stronger feelings of fulfilment and achievement and can support long term sustainability, as sheds usually do not start with large cash injections. Church Crookham & Fleet Men’s Shed is run by five trustees and a Management Committee chaired by Allan Walker. All trustees and committee members are volunteers.
Are Men’s Sheds just for older people? No. While many men who attend are retired, Men’s Sheds are open to adults of all ages. Retirement can be a difficult transition, as some men lose the routine, purpose, and camaraderie that work provides. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can negatively affect health and wellbeing. However, loneliness is not limited by age. Recognising this, and the broader benefits of skill sharing, informal learning, and enjoyment, Church Crookham & Fleet Men’s Shed welcomes a mix of ages.
Can women attend? Some Men’s Sheds in the UK have female members, while others remain men only. Each Shed decides what works best for its members, including whether to invite women or offer separate sessions. One of the key benefits of Men’s Sheds is that they create space for conversation about subjects men may find difficult to discuss elsewhere. Some men find it easier to open up in a men only environment, although this is not always the case.
Is there a Men’s Shed near me? Church Crookham & Fleet Men’s Shed is located within the parish of Church Crookham, next to the community allotments. Our address is: Church Crookham & Fleet Men’s Shed Gurkha Path Naishes Lane Church Crookham GU52 8DT Please follow the brown signs for Naishes Wood – SANG Parking. There are many Men’s Sheds across the UK. You can find your nearest Men’s Shed at: https://menssheds.org.uk/find-a-shed/
How do I join a Men’s Shed? Please visit our Membership page to find out more about how Church Crookham & Fleet Men’s Shed works. Our membership year runs from May to May, and memberships are reviewed at that time. If spaces are available, you will be able to complete a Membership Application Enquiry Form on the website. Our Membership Secretary will then be in touch to arrange a visit or an informal chat, so you can see what we’re all about.
How old do you have to be to go to a Men’s Shed? Due to the nature of the activities, members must be at least 18 years old.
Is there anything to pay if I decide to attend following my initial sessions? We charge a small annual membership fee, which can be paid annually or monthly to suit you. This helps cover our operational costs. There is also a voluntary collection tin to help cover the cost of tea and coffee. We are always happy to discuss fees with you if you have any questions.
Do I need any special equipment? No special equipment is needed. Just wear clothes you don’t mind getting dusty and bring a mug so you can help yourself to tea and coffee.
Do I need to know what I'm doing? No—complete beginners are very welcome. There are plenty of people to help, and lots of projects to get involved in. As long as you’re happy to work safely and be mindful of others, you’ll fit right in. We provide familiarisation training before anyone uses major items of equipment, to ensure everyone’s safety. We also run a number of in house training sessions.
Do I need a project of my own to be working on? No, not at all. You are very welcome to bring your own project, but we also work on a range of community projects for local organisations. Most shedders get involved in one or two of these, which helps keep you busy and makes it easier to get to know others.