The Slinfold Community Shed is open!

Slinfold Community Shed was the brainchild of Parish Councillor, Hilary Sherwin-Smith. After visiting the Shipley Men’s Shed in 2019, she was impressed and inspired to start one in the village of Slinfold. After submitting a proposal to the Parish Council, it was unanimously agreed to fund and build the shed. Feedback from the community revealed that apart from the men, several ladies were also interested in belonging to the shed to pursue crafting activities. As a result, the original name of ‘Men’s Shed’ evolved into the ‘Community Shed’ to reflect the broader interests and diversity of the local community.Then the COVID Pandemic struck, and everything was on hold. Once the restrictions were lifted in 2022, a Shed Committee was formed and with a renewed enthusiasm, were committed to making the Community Shed a reality. The building was completed in July and the interior kitted out by shed members using materials donated by Slinfold residents. In mid-September, we held our Open Day one sunny afternoon. The event was well attended and supported by villagers, the Parish Council and fellow ‘Shedders’ from Horsham Men’s Shed. We were thrilled at the success and since opening, we continue to welcome new members and visitors to take part in an array of crafting activities from making door curtains to keep out the winter chill to planning a bunting for a wedding next year and bags for the village shop. Visitors have popped in for a hot drink and made themselves at home and some have brought their own projects, made suggestions and donations.We have been in contact with the Brain Injury Trust at Kerwin Court, and would like to form an alliance with them to aid in the rehabilitation of their residents. The first project is underway making kits for woodwork that can be completed at Kerwin Court. Future projects have been discussed and hopefully, this will lead to an ongoing partnership.Recently, a Slinfold resident invited shed members to learn the craft of wood turning. Items created will be sold at the Slinfold Indoor Market and at the Community Shed. We are delighted that the Community Shed is gaining recognition and being known as a welcoming hub in support of community spirit and values.Annual subscription is £25 or £2 as a drop-in visitor aged over 18. There is a separate soft crafts section for handicrafts and a hard crafts section for woodwork, etc.If you have anything you would like to repair or upcycle, bring it along for some guidance and advice. Please follow us on Facebook or email us for further information at [email protected]. We are currently open Tuesday/Wednesday from 10am to 12pm and 2-4pm, subject to availability of a Shed supervisor. We are situated at Cherry Tree, alongside the football and tennis clubs. We look forward to you visiting us.