Our Members

Several members of the Shed were interviewed by an Intern Student, Katie, as part of her placement with us in summer 2026. Katie asked several members why they joined East Kilbride Men's Shed and what they enjoyed most about attending. A common theme throughout the interviews was friendship, company and just having somewhere to go. Many members described the Shed as a place where they could socialise, have a laugh and feel part of a community.

Irvine told Katie that following a cancer diagnosis, the Men's Shed helped him through a difficult period in his life. He described the members as a huge source of support and said the Shed had helped him get out of the house and gave him somewhere to relax and let off steam, he believes he wouldn't still be here if it wasn't for the Shed.

Thomas joined after losing his wife and finding himself sitting at home alone. He explained that the welcoming atmosphere encouraged him to join and that he now enjoys the camaraderie and learning new skills.

Stevie explained that he originally joined because of his mental health and feels he has come on "leaps and bounds" since becoming a member. He particularly enjoys the social side of the shed and having a sense of purpose.

Katie's experiences - During my placement at East Kilbride Men's Shed, I got the chance to speak to the chairman and lots of the members to find out about the history of the Shed and the real reasons people come along. This gave me a much better understanding of how the Shed helps support people's health and wellbeing within the local community.

Even though the Men's Shed doesn't directly provide mental health support, I found out that it is often recommended by health professionals for people struggling with their mental health, disabilities, long-term health conditions or social isolation. This is because it gives people somewhere to go, people to talk to and opportunities to learn new skills and get involved in the community.

One of my favourite parts of the placement was preparing and serving a lunch for around 25 members. I made macaroni cheese, sausage rolls and old school cake, and it was nice seeing everyone sitting together, having a laugh and enjoying themselves.

I got loads of positive feedback from the members, which made all the effort worth it.

I've seen first-hand the difference the Shed can make because my dad joined in 2022 after it was recommended to him following his stroke in 2021. Before my dad was shut off and didn't know what he was going to do in life, but since joining he has completely come out of his shell. It's given him something to look forward to, a reason to get out of the house and he's made some great friends along the way.

A lot of the members I spoke to shared similar experiences and said the Shed had helped them feel less lonely, learn new skills and find a sense of purpose again.

What I liked most about the Shed is that there is no pressure on anyone; nobody expects you to walk in and spend hours working away.

If someone wants to come in, have a cup of coffee or sit and chat for an hour and then go home, that's absolutely fine too, because no matter what, everyone is made to feel welcome.

The Shed is also a self-funded charity and many of the things members make are sold in their shop to help keep it running. They have brilliant facilities, loads of woodworking equipment and a communal area where everyone can get together for a cuppa, lots of biscuits and a good laugh (also a slagging).

From my first day I felt welcomed by all members, which made it much easier for me to settle in and carry out my placement.