A super buffet was laid on for some very special guests, including our local Member of Parliament Andy McDonald, as we officially opened our new and improved Men’s Shed.

Speaking to the invited audience, Chris Garcia, our Chief Officer explained how ‘Middlesbrough has the highest rate of suicide in men across the UK. The Men’s Shed offers a unique space for men, in an informal setting, share skills and build lasting friendships thereby improving their health and wellbeing.’

What was truly big news however, was the announcement that our Men’s Shed has won sufficient funding, courtesy of the Big Lottery ‘Building Connections’ fund, not only to expand but to provide security for the next two years! We would like to thank both Her Majesty’s Government and the National Lottery Players without whom this would not have been possible.

Chris introduced Jamsheed who runs the Men’s Shed, before one of his shedders, Bob, gave a rousing speech expressing his profound gratitude to be part of the Men’s Shed and how ‘the Men’s Shed gives him something to get up for’.

Julie and Kathryn from the National Lottery Community Fund explained how successful FRADE had been at securing the funds. They received 2,457 bids nationally and only 104 were awarded. Kathryn commented ‘FRADE have achieved this award as testament to not only the hard work shown by all involved but also how relevant and worthwhile this project is to the local community to reduce loneliness and isolation’. This was further endorsed by Andy McDonald MP who officially opened the Men’s Shed alongside our long time serving Chairman, Mike Tomlin.

We would like to express our deepest thanks to the National Lottery Community Fund, the National Lottery players and the Department of Culture Media and Sport for all your support in making this possible!

We would also like to thank our amazing volunteers and staff for making the necessary preparations for this event, their hard work and commitment to both Frade and their community doesn't go unnoticed and we are truly grateful for all their support.