SURF Awards Winner:
Community Led Regeneration

What is the aim of the project?

To transform disused and underutilised buildings into vibrant community hubs where men can come together.

Where is it taking place?

Men’s Sheds are located in all 32 local authority areas.

What has been achieved?

Across Scotland, men, particularly elderly, retired, unemployed or those experiencing poor health, are disproportionately affected by loneliness, isolation, and loss of purpose. Traditional community provision often does not feel accessible or relevant to them. This is where the introduction of Men’s Sheds has proven to be a solution for social and health regeneration.

Sheds create safe spaces where men can connect, share skills and knowledge, and contribute to the community. Activity within Scottish
Men’s Sheds is member-led and guided by local need. Members collectively decide on projects, workshops, and community initiatives. This approach ensures that activities are relevant, meaningful and engaging and create a strong sense of ownership and motivation among members.

The Sheds offer a wide range of activities, from gardening, model railway projects, digital skills sessions, and intergenerational mentoring to woodworking, metalwork, and DIY projects. These activities provide opportunities for Shedders to learn new skills, share expertise, and work collaboratively, fostering friendships and peer support. The diversity of projects caters to different interests and abilities, encouraging participation from men who may not engage with traditional community services. Regenerating disused buildings, green spaces, community infrastructure and, most importantly, giving men a sense of belonging and purpose. Fostering intergenerational working, with older men
passing on traditional skills to younger people, whilst in turn learning
from younger generations, strengthening community bonds across
ages.

The Scottish Men’s Sheds Association (SMSA) plays a vital role in the
establishment and sustainability of Sheds, providing expertise, resources, and encouragement to enable communities to turn ideas into reality. Demand is consistently high; from just one Shed in 2013, the movement has grown to over 210 Sheds, with new Sheds in development each year. SMSA supports Shedders by maintaining an accessible support network.

This combined model of local action and national support has proven
transformative. Together, Scottish Men’s Sheds and the SMSA represent a powerful model of community led regeneration in Scotland.

Who is running it?

Scottish Men’s Sheds are fundamentally community led and run by volunteers, with support from the SMSA, a member-led organisation with over 4,500 members.

Why did the judging panel like it?

The judging panel recognised the Scottish Men’s Sheds Association as an inspirational driving force facilitating the growth of the Men’s Shed movement in Scotland over the past decade. During the visit, judges met
representatives from two local sheds and saw first-hand how these grassroots initiatives — established by local people — foster connections, skill sharing, and community wellbeing. Rather than being a top-down
model, each Shed reflects the needs and interests of its members and their local communities.

The panel was impressed by the diversity of activities offered, which help combat social isolation and strengthen local bonds. The movement exemplifies community led regeneration, with each Shed acting as a welcoming space where people come together to support one another, build friendships, and contribute positively to their local area.