Origin of the Debenham Shed

The Debenham Shed which is a member of the UK Men’s Sheds Association, was formed in 2018 with originally four founding members.

Originally located in a 40ft shipping container, it provided a safe and secure venue on a community supported farm. The members quickly began to publicise their facility in the local media and radio to the surrounding villages and in particular to those men and women suffering from isolation and loneliness.

It was stressed that here was a location where membership was entirely voluntary and that members could refurbish or make any item of their choice or participate in the renovation of donated furniture or other items. These could then be sold to raise much needed funds and at the same time enjoy the friendship of a new community.

As a self-funding organisation, volunteers were required to take on the roles of: Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, Fund Raiser and Quartermaster; additionally, three other members agreed to participate on the Committee. All positions were filled.

With the advent of Covid it quickly became apparent that more space would be needed and it was decided to apply for planning permission to install a further three containers joined to the original container. Volunteers were required to prepare plans for submission to the local planning authority and when received, to prepare the site.

Urgent fund raising took place and with a contact given to us of a possible container supplier, we were able to obtain the three containers. These were delivered in the snow in February 2020 and once in position, they were bolted together, the internal walls removed to provide a large open working space but with the facility of a galley and a storeroom.

The next task for our volunteers was to insulate the walls and on completion to fit wooden panelling so that the risk of dampness and condensation was prevented; the wood was then sealed. Once finished, circuits for the electric light and sockets were installed again by our volunteers and then checked over by a credited electrician—there were no faults.

With the funds raised, we were then able to have made purpose-built work benches which were adjustable for height so that they could be used by both short and tall people.

With Shed publicity detailed in the press and on local radio, the Debenham Shed soon became known throughout the counties of Suffolk and Norfolk and our voluntary membership began to increase slowly and steadily; it now stands currently at 47.

Such has been the interest in our Shed, opening times have been increased so that members are able to enjoy the facility on Friday afternoons, Monday mornings and once a month on Saturday mornings, where various crafts to include candle making, the manufacture of glass terrariums, wool dyeing and many other crafts are undertaken as requested by the members.

Irrespective of personal skills and abilities, all volunteers are encouraged to participate in tasks and given support and help when required, as well as guidance on health and safety when using specialist tools and equipment.

Information of some of the projects undertaken by the shed volunteers can be seen on our Events and Projects page and more pictures of the various other activities in the shed can be found in our gallery