Raising money for Men in Sheds Bedford

Hi everyone and thank you for viewing my Go Fund Me page. Mental health is a topic that is very important to me, having struggled with it for several years. During the COVID pandemic, there has never been a more challenging time to people’s Mental Health. 

 

Having raised over £600 in 2020 running my first marathon for Mind, I will now be running another event between the 4th - 6th March 2022, starting at 5am on the 4th where I will be running 4 miles, every 4 hours, for 48 hours! The charity I will be raising money for is called ’Men In Sheds’ 

 

The Men in Sheds Association is an international organisation which is represented in the UK and have a network of independently run community sheds. I will be raising money for the Bedford Shed. 

 

So you’re probably thinking, “What is Men in Sheds?” right? Well, think of a garden shed – normally quite an isolated place, but a place where you can grow things, make things, do practical things! Men In Sheds is a similar concept. However, this is a club that allows people to create social connections, build friendships, share skills and knowledge. 

 

I have attached a little video on here which shows you some of the work done at Men in Sheds which was filmed on Channel 4 a few years ago, please give it a watch!

 

 

It is important that we open up about our own mental health. Men have always found it difficult to open up about our feelings and emotions. It was portrayed as a sign of ‘weakness’ or ‘soft’ however despite all the good work that is being done by various charities, suicide rates in men are still extremely high.

 

Men In Sheds is a charity that allows older, more mature men who wouldn’t naturally open up and talk about their feelings the opportunity to come and socialise, do DIY activities, reduce social isolation and improve mental wellbeing.

 

 That is why this charity is so appealing to me, and that is why I have chosen it. Men in Sheds allows older men a place to go and do things, to do things they love, and not allow their health or social isolation to get in the way.

 

 I think to myself: “How would I feel if it was my dad in that situation?” 

 

Men in Sheds Bedford is run on a total volunteer basis. As you can imagine, the COVID pandemic has hindered funding, so any donations you can provide would be greatly appreciated! 

 

They are looking to convert some old storerooms into a crafts room, and also add a toilet into some of the pre-existing rooms!

 

I will be posting regular updates with information and awareness for Men In Sheds, and also of my training!