HEATHFIELD & DISTRICT MEN’S SHED
The Heathfield & District Men’s Shed (HMS) is the most recent venture linked with Age Concern Heathfield and is open to men over 60 in the TN21 postcode.
The Shed activity fits in nicely with our aim to support those over 60 years of age in the TN21 area and goes hand in hand with our existing facilities. There seemed to be a gap in supporting activity for men in particular over the age of 60 and, after some initial research it was seen that there was indeed a demand.
The Men’s Shed concept originated in Australia in 1998. A Men’s Shed is like a large garden shed, but community based; it’s a place where men can converse, create, connect and drink tea! The UK now has 900 Men’s Sheds up and running across the country of which we are one & an additional 150 are in development linked to the UK Men’s Shed Association. These actively involved some 13,000 Shedder’s across the country.
As men can find it difficult to build social connections and rarely discuss or share personal issues, this friendly and welcoming environment encourages men to feel part of a ‘shedding community’ and can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Whilst we tried hard to locate premises or sites in the TN21 catchment area we had no option but to locate just outside of the town. We are based a mile & a half outside of Heathfield at a site linked to a local nursery school and small holding, which gives us an idyllic location.
This Age Concern Heathfield project was launched in 2018 & completed in 2021 despite Covid issues during 2020 – 2021. Our original target was to coincide opening with the 30th Anniversary year of Age Concern Heathfield & District in 2020 supporting our community. This covered an office build and a Shed. During the transition we held monthly meetings, initially at local Cafes and then monthly at the Fire Station. Attendance was circa 12 or so despite having no facilities! The Heathfield and District Men’s Shed was founded in 2018. Our official opening was carried out in September 2021 by Roger Daltrey.
For those with crafting skills, equipment and training is available and encouragement is given to demonstrate and share those skills with other ‘Shedders’ – but the most important requirement is a willingness to participate, to enjoy yourself and have fun. In order to allow us to continue and be self-sufficient; whilst maintaining our low membership cost, we fund our operations via sales predominantly at local markets or via bespoke commissions. All members where possible are encouraged to either assist in making items or by assisting on market days. Membership comes in one of two formats either social or full membership. Social membership allows attendance to regular social events such as pub nights, breakfast sessions (both held monthly), quiz nights, Chinese and Indian nights together with various shows of interest during the year. Full membership allows access to the Shed and full use of tools and equipment on site plus all social events.
Currently both membership categories are full but if you would like to be added to our waiting list please email our membership secretary Nic via :
For other enquiries by all means email via or ring 01435 866960 for more information. We can also be found on Facebook under Heathfield Men’s Shed.
We are also a member of The UK Men’s Shed Association (UKMSA) who indicate that Shed activity in the UK currently benefits some 13176 families currently.
