We’ve teamed up with handy ‘Men In Sheds’ as part of our push to do homebuilding differently. They’ve been putting their skills to good use and the end results are fantastic!
‘Men In Sheds’ is national initiative to tackle social isolation and loneliness by bringing men together over shared pastimes. It’s all about encouraging men to get out of the house and do something productive with their time … learn new skills, meet new people and above all have a laugh.
We were super lucky to have groups local to two of our sites – in both Ellesmere Port and Bolton. So, we got on the phone, and before we knew it were joining forces with them both. They’ve since turned waste wood from the build process into unique hand-made pieces.
They say one man’s trash is another man’s treasure! We donated stacks of wood offcuts to the local groups, who in turn created stunning benches, planters and bat boxes – for use at our Glisk community (Ellesmere Port), Silkash (Bolton) and for sale locally.
Berni Barry, Senior Development Manager at Northstone, said:
“This partnership has been a brilliant way to both reduce waste from our sites and welcome wildlife into our community. The Men In Sheds at both sites have been amazing at recycling wood into well-made, sturdy creations like bird boxes and bug hotels for our community. It’s brilliant to witness the men in the groups not only supporting each other, but putting their handy skills to great use.
“From day one of Northstone, our aim has been to create sustainable neighbourhoods where we cut waste, build links with the existing community and create green areas that enhance biodiversity. Men In Sheds’ creations help with all those aspects and we’re really grateful for their enthusiasm.”
The groups have already handed over their first creations, with more in the pipeline. It’s all part of Northstone’s commitment to building links with local groups, as well as minimising waste from our construction sites.
We’ve a major focus on sustainability and biodiversity too. At Glisk, we’re introducing new green spaces with bat and bird boxes that provide new habitats; creating new nature trails linking the site to Jacks Wood; as well as striking regional partnerships with organisations like The Wildlife Trust.
We’ve done the same at our sites in Bolton, Wigan and Barrowford too, going way above the norm when it comes to planting and introducing green spaces and new habitats.
Men In Sheds has been a storming success locally and nationally. For many reasons, men can find themselves isolated, from retirement or unemployment, to bereavement, old age, disability or ill health. The group has been a lifeline for many, bringing men together for chat, support and bonding over woodwork, metalwork and crafts.