Men In Sheds Blacon and Chester Day Opportunities celebrate new community initiative

Men In Sheds Blacon, in collaboration with Chester Day Opportunities, part of Salutem Care and Education, has opened a new community initiative aimed at enhancing skill development and social interaction.

Since 2018, Men In Sheds Blacon has been an integral part of Chester Day Opportunities. The project's goal was to expand into the community, a vision that, despite being delayed by the Covid pandemic, has now come to fruition.

A national charity, it focuses on providing men over the age of 50 with opportunities to develop woodworking skills and create a community space to reduce social isolation.

Chester Day Opportunities, with its commitment to aiding individuals with disabilities in skill development and fostering friendships, found synergy in partnering with Men In Sheds.

This partnership has already borne fruit, with members of Men In Sheds designing and creating an accessible, raised gardening planter. This thoughtful addition enhances wheelchair access, demonstrating the project's inclusive ethos. Men In Sheds members are also revitalising the garden at Chester Day Opportunities, contributing significantly to the transformation of the space.

The Lord Mayor of Chester, Cllr Sheila Little, who represents the Blacon ward, officially inaugurating the project at a celebratory opening day event.

John Godden, chief executive of Salutem Care and Education, who expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, also attended the event and said:

"This partnership is a shining example of how collaboration and community spirit can bring about meaningful change. It's inspiring to see people coming together, learning, and growing in such a nurturing environment.”