Pictures: New documentary launched about Thomastown Mens Shed

A new documentary, ’Shoulder to Shoulder, Helping One Another’, addresses the vital role of the Thomastown Men’s Shed for its members and the community, focusing on personal stories and its positive impact on the community as a whole.

The Thomastown Men’s Shed is a community-based organisation that provides a supportive environment for men to come together, socialise, and work on practical projects. It plays an important role in improving the lives of elderly men and their communities.

Originally founded in Australia in the 1990s, the Men’s Shed movement has found a welcoming home in Ireland and has grown into a national phenomenon. The concept is simple yet powerful: Men’s Sheds are places where men can engage in hobbies, learn new skills, and, most importantly, build meaningful connections with others in a relaxed and non-judgmental environment.
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"It is a space where we welcome everyone, despite religion, race or nationality. The Thomastown Men’s Shed is the only option to hang out outside pubs, and it plays a vital role for men in the community," says Peter Hynes, Chair of the TMS.

With over 400 men’s sheds across the country, these vibrant spaces are breaking down social isolation, fostering skills development, and promoting mental and physical well-being among men of all ages.
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The benefits of men’s sheds extend far beyond social engagement. Members are often involved in practical projects that benefit their local communities, from creating woodwork items, recycling and upcycling furniture, to volunteering for local charity events. These initiatives not only provide a sense of purpose but also give back to the broader community, reinforcing the importance of social responsibility and active citizenship.

One key special aspect of the Thomastown Men’s Shed is its ability to address the mental health challenges faced by men. By providing a space to talk, share, and connect without judgment, the Men's Shed is helping to reduce the stigma around mental health issues, encouraging men to open up about their struggles and seek help when needed.

Social interactions provide emotional support, reduce feelings of loneliness, and offer opportunities for shared experiences that foster a sense of belonging and connection. Engaging with others can also help boost self-esteem, as positive interactions reinforce feelings of acceptance and validation. Furthermore, the Thomastown Men’s Shed creates a safe space where everyone is welcome, regardless of age, culture, religion, race, or nationality. 

"The focus of this project is to combat loneliness. There are many, many people who feel lonely but the services available do not reach them. And here we talk, share, create things, organise activities, meet new people every day and see each other regularly 3 times a week, which is important for all of us. Our project is a significant part of the community," says Peter Hynes, Chair of the TMS.