> [!NOTE]+ Meta > Author:: Sirin Kale > Reference:: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2022/sep/26/the-people-making-a-difference-the-man-setting-up-woodworking-sheds-to-combat-loneliness > Date:: 2022-09-26 > Tags:: #wood > WeftLinks:: [[Social value of craft]] > [!SUMMARY] Summary > Woodworking sheds help combat loneliness by sharing craft actvities. ### Highlights Philip Jackson, a 78 year old man from Barnsley, UK, is combating loneliness in his town by setting up "Men's Sheds" and "She-Sheds", which are communal woodworking spaces. The members range in age from 22 to 87 and come from diverse backgrounds. Jackson also started a weekly Live Stream on Facebook during lockdown to help people stay connected. Jackson recently proposed to Sandra Potesta, a social enterprise director and active shedder, and she accepted. They have yet to set a date for the wedding. Woodworking sheds combat loneliness by providing a communal space for people to come together and engage in shared activities. The Australian Men’s Shed Association provides a collective of more than 1,000 sheds that create an environment for individuals to interact, build relationships, and work on projects together. The Barnsley Men’s Shed in particular was set up with a small National Lottery grant and donations of woodwork equipment, providing an opportunity for people to come together and enjoy the shared experience of woodworking.