Barnsley Hospice Men’s Shed – Starting January 2026!

Barnsley Hospice is pleased to announce it will host a new monthly ‘Men’s Shed’ group starting this January to run throughout the year.

Barnsley Hospice Men’s Shed will provide a place for men to meet, organise and participate in social activities, and talk to others who are in similar situations.

The monthly group will take place on the last Friday of every month (except December), 10 am to 12 pm, held at The Orangery at Barnsley Hospice, with the first session held on Friday 30 January, 2026.

Chris Black, Complementary and Wellbeing Therapist at Barnsley Hospice, who will co-host the groups, said: “We’re so excited to be hosting a Men’s Shed group as this is a fantastic movement that allows men the opportunity to improve their mental health and reduce isolation.

“The group will very much lead itself in the sense that we will engage with participants and see what activities they’d like to do and what they’d like to create. It will be an informal, shoulder-to-shoulder environment helping men share their skills and learn new ones, all whilst knowing they have the opportunity to ‘open up’ should they wish.”

Who can attend?

Any man aged 18+ living in Barnsley who is either:

Living with a life-limiting illness
Caring for someone with a life-limiting illness
Bereaved after a life-limiting illness

What is the purpose of the group?

The Men’s Shed group aims to provide a safe space for men to talk with other like-minded men, share experiences, develop friendships and reduce social isolation. They are a great opportunity to share skills and learn new ones. Research shows that Men’s Sheds are uniquely placed to support improvements in men’s holistic wellbeing.

How much does it cost?

Nothing! These groups are completely free of charge.

Do I need to book?

Whilst it is not necessary to book, we would still be delighted to know that you’d like to attend! You can do this by contacting The Orangery team at Barnsley Hospice on 01226 244 244 or emailing theorangery@barnsley-hospice.org

Schedule (please note these topics are subject to change as course session dictates)

Friday 30 January 2026 – 10 am to 12 pm – Welcome & Wellbeing
Friday 27 February 2026 – 10 am to 12 pm – Winter gardening
Friday 27 March 2026 – 10 am to 12 pm – Creative upcycling
Friday 24 April 2026 – 10 am to 12 pm – Woodwork basics (Birdbox build)
Friday 29 May 2026 – 10 am to 12 pm – Woodwork basics continued
Friday 26 June 2026 – 10 am to 12 pm – Spring planting
Friday 31 July 2026 – 10 am to 12 pm – Music & memory
Friday 28 August 2026 – 10 am to 12 pm – Moving & motivation
Friday 25 September 2026 – 10 am to 12 pm – Summer social
Friday 30 October 2026 – 10 am to 12 pm – Model Making
Friday 27 November 2026 – 10 am to 12 pm – Harvest garden produce
Friday 18 December 2026 – 10 am to 12 pm – Festive fun