Culter and District Men’s Shed Development
A group of enthusiastic men with encouragement from a local councillor formed the Culter and District Men’s Shed (CDMS).
The Shed is a registered charity and is managed by up to eleven trustees in accordance with the Constitution. It is a member of both the Scottish Men’s Sheds Association and also the UK Men’s Sheds Association (further details below).
The former cadet hut in the Bush was identified as an ideal location for our shed and initially leased to us by Aberdeen Council. Purchase of the shed/site was completed in November 2019. We are very fortunate in being one of only a few Men’s Sheds which own their premises.
The coronavirus epidemic interfered with the Shed’s development but we re-opened to members in late 2021. Since then, Shed members have enthusiastically participated in activities which are varied and often supportive of the wider community.
In 2023 we embarked on a project to install air-to-air heat pumps and a solar panels system with battery storage. The existing building heating system comprised electric heating panels and convectors such that every kilowatt of heating required at least one kilowatt of input power from the grid. Whereas the heat pumps would provide something like 3 or 4 kilowatts of heating for every kilowatt consumed. We sought and obtained funding and the new systems were installed and commissioned in 2024. They have made a considerable reduction to our energy consumption and we are even a net exporter of power to the grid in summertime.
In 2023 we also commenced the construction of a greenhouse which was supplied as a kit comprising pressed steel frame members and polycarbonate panels. This has been very successful.
Men’s Sheds’ Background
The Men’s Shed movement started in Australia from where it spread rapidly. The purpose of a Shed is to provide a social and workshop environment for men of all ages from 18 and upwards. They may be in work, out of work, retired, with disabilities or just plain bored. These men have a wealth of skills and knowledge to contribute and can gain immensely from social contact and sharing their experience with other men.
It is widely recognised that men, particularly not when in employment, can suffer from social isolation, often leading to deterioration of mental health and physical wellbeing. Being a member of a Men’s Shed can have a very positive effect on such wellbeing.
Scottish Men’s Shed Association
The Scottish Men’s Shed Association is the umbrella organisation for all Men’s Sheds in Scotland. For more information please CLICK on the link below.
UK Men’s Shed Association
The UK Men’s Shed Association is the umbrella organisation for all Men’s Sheds in UK. For more information please CLICK on the link below.