More than a place to do woodwork: a case study of a community-based Men's Shed

Background: Community-based Men's Sheds programs are an example of a health promotion initiative that aims to promote psychosocial health and wellbeing in older men. A community-based Men's Shed is a large shed that supports men to come together and undertake activities, most commonly woodwork and/or metalwork. This qualitative descriptive study explores men's experiences of participating in a Men's Shed program and how these experiences may impact on their health and wellbeing. Methods: A case study of a community-based Men's Shed within a rural community was used to explore men's experiences of participating in a Men's Shed program. Qualitative descriptive methodology was used in this research. The data to build a case study were collected through in-depth interviews with participants involved in the Men's Shed. The qualitative data were analysed thematically. Results: The results of this study indicate that Men's Sheds can have a role in promoting the health and wellbeing of men who participate in them by supporting their engagement in activities they enjoy and find meaningful. This, in turn, provides a sense of purpose and identity. The social environment of Men's Sheds leads to the development of positive social relationships with other men and a sense of belonging. Reviewed literature demonstrates the importance of these psychosocial aspects for health and wellbeing. Conclusions: Men's Sheds enhance the health and wellbeing of the men who are participant in them. Elements that support Men's Sheds to be health promoting include being inclusive, providing a male-friendly space and recognising the intrinsic health benefits of Men's Sheds.