What is The Repair Shed?

The Repair Shed is an environmental social enterprise that is financially self-sustaining by, making, mending, selling products and services as appropriate. It is a vibrant community where people come together who enjoy making or mending to pursue practical interests, practice skills, make social connections and friendships.

For a long time research has shown the negative impact of loneliness and isolation on a person’s health and wellbeing. Recently we have seen more evidence come to light that shows loneliness and isolation can be as hazardous to our health as obesity and excessive smoking. Surveys from mental health charities are finding that millions of people report feeling lonely on a daily basis.

Men typically find it more difficult to build social connections than women, and unlike women of a similar age, less older men have networks of friends and rarely share personal concerns about health and personal worries. It is not the case for all men, but for some, when retirement comes, it can feel like personal identity and purpose is lost. The Repair Shed can change all of that.

We provide a place for you to meet like-minded people and have someone to share your worries with. It’s about having fun, sharing skills and knowledge with like-minded people and gaining a renewed sense of purpose and belonging. As a by-product of all of that the Repair Shed reduces isolation and feelings of loneliness, it allows you to deal with mental health challenges more easily and remain independent.

Owing to the popularity of our sheds, we have to place potential shedders on a waiting list.

When a space becomes available, Tony will arrange for you to come and have a chat at Northchurch, St Luke’s, or Sunnyside, whichever suits you best. You will be invited to a “taster” session where you can meet some of our SHEDDERS, get a feel for what our SHEDs looks like and above all tell us what you are interested in doing. If you then want to become a full member, we will go through a thorough induction process to ensure you are fully aware of the workplace risks and the responsibilities you will have as a member of our team.

Opening times

These dates and times often change for operational reasons.

Sewing Café

As part of the Repair Shed we will help you “make do and mend”, upcycle existing clothes and furnishings or show you how to start from scratch using your own fabric and pattern. Support is available for all levels.   

Thursdays 10.00 am – 12.30 at the Repair Shed in St Luke’s School, Redbourn.

The cost per person per session is £5.00 payable on the day.