Men’s Shed project receives NHS cash boost to help get cooking

The Men’s Shed project in Carse of Gowrie has received NHS funding for new kitchen equipment to promote healthy eating and cooking among members.

NHS Tayside’s Community Innovation Fund recently approved a sum of £3,956 to fund the purchase of kitchen equipment for members of the group to use.

The money will also be used to create a promotional video to highlight the Men’s Shed project.

Men’s Sheds is a concept that originated in Australia to create somewhere men can call their own, where they can spend time sharing skills, knowledge and interests in a relaxed atmosphere.

The successful project in Carse of Gowrie is supported by the Perth and Kinross Healthy Communities Collaborative and already has more than 70 members.

The Men’s Shed kitchen provides healthy food for the members and is used to provide cookery classes.

The kitchen also allows the group to provide their own catering facilities during events.

Perth and Kinross Health Communities Collaborative project manager Jackie Doe said: “The Men’s Shed kitchen is already being used for a six-week Community Cook It programme. This course, jointly delivered by Healthy Communities and the dietetic department teaches basic cooking, nutrition, and gives dietary advice in a relaxed group session.

“One member who hasn’t cooked for over 17 years is now on his own and is really enjoying this opportunity to learn how to prepare healthy meals for himself in such a friendly setting.”

For more information contact Jackie Doe on 01738 473718.