Emmaus Gloucestershire is opening a new community space in Gloucester and it’s looking for local creatives to get involved.
Inspired by the Men’s Shed Association, the People’s Shed at Emmaus’s Barnwood Road site in Gloucester aims to offer a variety of workshops to members of the public to help reduce loneliness and isolation in the local community.
The charity is appealing to local creatives in Gloucestershire to get involved with running the workshops, to give people the opportunity to learn practical skills, socialise and make friends.
Chief executive of Emmaus Gloucestershire, Jon Feeley, said: ‘During the pandemic, people of all ages experienced isolation and loneliness in some form. Our People’s Shed has no target audience and will be welcoming anyone who would like to make social connections, share skills and knowledge, make new friends, and have some fun in a different environment.
‘Activities on offer will vary greatly depending on the local talent involved and we’re hoping to hear from anyone who is interested in sharing their creative or practical skills with others. This could be anything from woodworking, upcycling and repair, to arts, crafts, literature, pottery or music.’
Emmaus Gloucestershire provides a home and meaningful work to people in the county experiencing homelessness or social exclusion. The motivation behind the People’s Shed is to help build self-esteem and self-worth, as well as providing a sense of purpose, for those suffering from the effects of homelessness or isolation from society.
Jon Feeley added: ‘The idea to create a People’s Shed was born when we began exploring ways to expand our offering to the wider community to help combat isolation, social exclusion and loneliness.
‘We believe that the People’s Shed will provide a valuable asset to the community. After the time we have all experienced, it’s important to help people who may struggle with social anxiety or adapting to a change in routine following a long period of isolation and physical distancing.’
Anyone interested in running a workshop at the Emmaus Gloucestershire People’s Shed can email joanna.hyndman@emmaus.org.uk to get involved.
