Building a community brick by brick

26th March 2025

A community space in Halstead has seen huge success in its first year of operation.

The Wellbeing at The Shed Project opened its doors in March 2024, transforming a disused St. John Ambulance Station into a health and wellbeing hub, including a Men’s Shed.

Funding from the Braintree District & Eastlight Community Fund enabled Kevin Pryke (pictured on the right) to realise his dream of creating a safe space in Halstead, after being inspired whilst visiting Cut Maple Men’s Shed.

The Hub now hosts a variety of activities to increase wellbeing including yoga, pilates, meditation and dance sessions, but more than this, it’s a place where people can connect, stay active and support each other.

The success the Wellbeing at The Shed Project has had is testament to the hard work and community spirit that has developed since its launch.

Kevin said: “It’s grown way beyond what we intended, receiving 7,000 visits in its first year alone. In addition, our Men’s Shed group meets on Tuesday and Thursday, and will meet more often if demand increases.”

Members of the men’s shed work on meaningful, practical projects together. Accomplishments include a rocking horse for a local children’s hospice.

The Hub also offers allotment spaces with raised beds to allow people with all abilities to grow fruit and vegetables.

Kevin said: “The idea is to prevent loneliness and isolation. 75 per cent of all suicides are men, with those aged 46 to 64 in the largest group. It’s a good support group after retiring – a place where people can talk, connect, and support each other.”

Rod, a regular visitor to the shed, said, “It’s lovely coming here. You have a chat and help each other with your projects. It’s better than sitting at home.”

More than £1 million has been awarded to a host of local causes around the Braintree District in the last couple of years. This example is one of many success stories and demonstrates the positive impact anyone can have on their community.

If you would like to give back to your local community, we would be pleased to have a conversation with you. Please contact Perry Norton on 01245 355947 or email perry@essexcf.org.uk