For many men in Haverfordwest, the HaverShed (part of the wider Men’s Shed movement) offers more than just a place to tinker with wood or share a cup of tea. It’s a welcoming space where men can come together to combat social isolation, boost their mental wellbeing, and connect through shared skills and companionship.
“Everyone brings something,” said Kevin Thompson, the shed’s secretary. “Some might be great at carving or woodworking, others might have administrative skills. Everyone contributes in their own way.”
The members make a number of handmade wooden products (Image: Bethan Croft)
The group, which has been running in Haverfordwest for the past two years, meets every Wednesday and Friday from 10am to 3pm at the old Print Works next to the Block and Barrel in the town centre. While woodworking is a big part of what they do, there’s no pressure to pick up a tool. Members are just as welcome to sit, chat, and enjoy a cuppa, or take part in other activities like music.
Members can take part in woodwork, other activities or just drop in and have a cuppa and a chat (Image: Bethan Croft)
Inside the shed, you’ll find a lively workshop where creativity flourishes. Members craft everything from bird boxes and carved bowls to pens, clocks, and bird tables, often selling their handiwork at local craft fairs such as the HaverHub Market. The money raised helps keep the shed running and funds future projects.
The overall Men’s Shed movement began in Australia in the 1980s, growing from someone’s back garden into an international network that supports men’s health and wellbeing. The Haverfordwest branch is part of Men’s Sheds Cymru and UK, both of which provide guidance, though each local shed operates independently.
Most Men’s Sheds are held in rural locations, such as from the back of a trailer in a carpark (as this is a more affordable way to run the place); however, HaverShed has a great central location, with a nearby carpark too, meaning it isn’t out of the way for members. It does, however, mean that rent needs to be paid, and so funding is crucial.
Here, members come from a wide range of backgrounds: tradesmen, retirees, administrative and more. Many are self-taught, learning from one another and sharing tips on how to make or fix things. Stuart, who recently joined his father-in-law at the group a few months ago after retirement, said: “If someone gets stuck, there’s always someone nearby willing to show them how to do it.”
For many, the shed provides a vital lifeline. “The shed helps people that may have otherwise taken that final step of going over the edge,” says Nigel, one of the regular members. Local police and health services are aware of the group and often refer men who may be struggling with isolation or poor mental health.
Members describe the shed as something to look forward to each week; a place of achievement, friendship, and belonging. Outings and social events are also part of the mix, from Sunday lunches to day trips such as their recent visit to St Fagans. “Some people don’t have family,” says Nigel. “Here, they make a new one, or extend the one they already have.”
The group has around a dozen regular members, each contributing £1 a week towards tea and coffee. While the sense of community is strong, the shed is currently facing a challenge: due to renovations by their landlord, members will soon be moving upstairs in the same building.
Although grateful to have reached an agreement — “The landlord has been very helpful, and we’re extremely grateful,” members said — the new location raises concerns about accessibility. With many steps leading up to the space, those with mobility issues may find it difficult to join, which runs counter to the group’s open and inclusive ethos. The move is expected to take place in March or April.
Despite these hurdles, HaverShed’s future looks bright. The group used to be funded by the National Lottery and is in the process of re-applying as well as registering for charity status. Personal donations of tools and materials also keep the workshop thriving, and there’s an active exchange of equipment between nearby sheds in Neyland and Milford Haven.
Every shed is different as they are each shaped by their members and shared experiences, but ultimately all share the same goal: to offer a safe, welcoming space for men to connect, create, and care for one another.
If you’d like to see some of the Haverfordwest Men’s Shed’s handcrafted work, you can find their stall at the HaverHub Market this weekend. Or, if you’re looking for company, creativity, or just a chat over a brew, why not drop by the shed yourself?
