We bring older people together around a workshop facility equipped primarily for all wood-related activities but also some clay work. As this attracts older men in particular we are replacing lost workmates, increasing activity, adding purpose, stimulating creativity and skill-sharing and contributing to the community and the environment. The workshop is open access, networked to local services and free to attend. We have a session specifically for people with special needs. We are self-funding through earnings.
We open 2.5 days per week. People come to make and mend but in so doing learn from each other. Most items are for personal use, some items are made for sale and some for local 'good causes'. New people are inducted. We have four safety supervisors. Generally people just come in and get on with their projects. We stop for lunch and chat. We earn money from public training courses.
