MEN’S Sheds across the country were given a lifeline as the Scottish Government reversed the decision to cut funding to the organisation.

Earlier this year, it was announced the Scottish Men’s Shed Association (SMHA) would not be receiving any financial backing for the first time since 2014.

This sparked widespread concern among Men’s Sheds, who feared that without a cushion from the SMHS, some sheds may be forced to close.

The Scottish Government has made a U-turn on their decision and has decided to provide the SMHS with £75,000 for the 2023-24 financial year.

Kenny Quinn, chairman for the Forth Valley Men's Shed, said it was a relief to see the SMHS receive funding again.

He said: “I’m pleased that the SMSA has been granted funding again. It benefits us individually and every other Men’s Sheds and it's a great relief to me that funding has been secured again.

“If the SMSA is funded properly, it provides a support network for us that some sheds rely on.

“The SMSA does so much in helping you with legal advice or health and safety and are pivotal to ensuring Men’s Sheds can open properly.

“They negotiate rates with insurance companies to try and give sheds a discount. They’re a very good voice for Men’s Sheds across the country.”

The SMSA received £75,000 in funding in 2022 but were told at the start of this year that the money would instead be redistributed into the NHS and to combat the cost-of-living crisis.

A number of Men’s Sheds were left confused by this decision, claiming the work they do relieves pressure from mental health services within the NHS.

Many members are referred to the service by the NHS, where they can work within a safe environment, alleviating strain on GPs and therapists.

It is estimated Men’s Sheds save the NHS £1500 per year per member in mental health support costs.

Jason Schroeder, chief executive officer at the SMSA, welcomed the decision to provide funding again.

He said: “We did not get the level of funding that we require however we are delighted to have overturned this decision.

“We are overwhelmed by the backing received from our members, politicians and members of the public far and wide in addition to the media for helping us raise awareness of our vital work.

“The core funding received from the Scottish Government and several smaller funders has taken the pressure, for now, enabling us to remain open for another financial year.

“The future is looking bright with exciting plans and projects in the pipelines working with lots of new partners.”