Project set up to help men tackle loneliness

A new project aims to bring men together to repair and restore furniture while making friends and boosting mental wellbeing.

The Rez Shed in Wadebridge, Cornwall, was set up by the town's food bank after staff noticed some of the men they saw there were lonely and "so at sea".

The restoration project was designed to tackle social isolation and strengthen community ties.

Zach Taylor, who attended an open day, said: "I like the company, they help and are really nice people."

The Rez Shed was launched two months ago and uses furniture provided by the food bank.

Jacqui White, from the food bank, said some of the men "just don't know what to do".

"We are trying to encourage the guys to just come and talk," she said.

Arthur White, from the Rez Shed, added: "There's a great need for men to come together.

"We do a bit of furniture restoration, nothing major. We drink a lot of coffee, we eat a lot of biscuits.

"I've found that men are looking for fellowship."

Craig Bracefield, who is also involved in the project, said no skills were needed to participate.

"This place is all about just getting alongside blokes," he said.

"We are here to support guys and offer something a little bit different."

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