A ‘Men in Sheds’ base could be established in the north of the island.
A planning application has been submitted by Department of Health and Social Care for the erection of a timber recreational building in the grounds of Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital, as a permanent base for the project.
Northern Men in Sheds, part of the Isle of Man Live at Home Scheme, is aimed at improving the lives of retired people by getting them involved in activities on offer.
A similar scheme exists in the south of the island.
‘Men in Sheds’ is based on an Australian concept of helping men to have what’s described as a ‘positive active retirement’.
It is a place to learn new skills, share old ones and socialise with other retired men.
Ginette Hattersley, who works for the department in Ramsey, said: ‘We are grateful to the hospital trustees for permission to supply the land for the proposed building and are pleased to support this community project.’
Frank Pattison, the chairman of the Northern Men in Sheds, said: ‘We have been very fortunate to receive such excellent support from the staff and management of Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital. The Northern Men in Sheds group has already been meeting every week in a large room which has generously been made available within the hospital.
‘Subject to planning approval being received, and once the building is complete, the weekly meetings will move into this permanent base. Importantly the activities and skills that will be on offer will be entirely led by the users, helping to improve each person s confidence and independence.’
David Gawne, the chairman of the trustees of the Isle of Man Live at Home Scheme thanked Frank and the team for all their commitment and enthusiasm in moving the proposal forward.
He also acknowledged the help and support received from the department, Ramsey service staff and the hospital trustees.
Minister for Health and Social Care Howard Quayle MHK said: ‘Social isolation and loneliness is an important issue, and a challenge to our island community.
‘Proactively addressing this issue is in line with the government’s priority of protecting the vulnerable and can help to reduce the impact on health and social care provision.
‘This project undoubtedly highlights the strong community spirit of our island and will improve the wellbeing of all the men who get involved.’
{http://www.iomtoday.co.im/news/district-news/it-s-full-steam-ahead-for-men-in-sheds-project-1-3207395|Men in Sheds in the south of the island}
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