About East Kilbride Mens Shed

East Kilbride Mens Shed is a community space for people to socialise together. Our members share knowledge, skills, and friendship, all while having fun! We strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone, so come and join us to make something great!

Our History

East Kilbride Mens Shed was founded in 2014, but did not start properly until 2017 when a portacabin in the College Milton corner of the town was offered to the group. From that point the Shed went from strength to strength, building a large extension to the portacabin at the site and growing the membership.

Having built the extension in 2019, COVID struck and the Shed closed by Government order. Then in early 2021, we received the unwelcome news that the operator of the site wanted to close the Shed at College Milton. Members rallied round and within two weeks, all tools and equipment were put into storage whilst a new base was found. Several options, including commercial properties, were considered before we found that St Leonard’s Hall was available. The help of town councillors and cooperation of South Lanarkshire staff very quickly ensured access to the Hall in March 2022 so the task of rebuilding could begin.

With an enthusiastic membership returning, it wasn’t long before the Shed became fit for purpose and within six months an official opening was held.

St Leonard’s Hall has been very widely welcomed by everyone at East Kilbride Mens Shed. In a central location with good public transport links, car parking and local shops, it is well placed to serve a very wide community.

Practical activities include 3D printing, laser engraving and artwork. We are also very fortunate to have a well equipped workshop for both metal and wooden crafts. Our shop is open to the public where we can take orders for custom items, or simply sell the items already made by our members.

We strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone, whilst constantly developing our range of activities to suit member preferences, so why not join us, see what we currently offer, or just simply come along for a chat and a brew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a member to vist the Shed

No. We would encourage you to come along and join us in the Shed, get to know us, have a hot drink and a chat with our members, and see what we offer before joining as a member.

Do I need to book a time to visit the Shed

No. We are open from noon until 4pm, Monday to Friday. Drop in any time that suits you as a warm welcome awaits.

How much is membership

The current membership fee is £24 per year.

Is there a waiting list to join as a member

No. We currently have 60+ members, who don't all visit at the same time, so there is ample opportunity for new members.

Can women join the Mens Shed

Yes. Although we are called a Mens Shed, we are a Community Shed, open to anyone over 18 years of age. Lady members are most welcome in the Shed.

Can I use all of the equipment

Yes. Once you become a member, there is a short induction on how to use each machine safely. If you have previous experience, then this is a simple process. If you have never used a particular machine, you will be shown it’s capabilities, and more importantly, the safe way to use it.

Volunteer at East Kilbride Mens Shed

The Mens Shed is a non-profit charity that relies on volunteers to both run the Shed and participate in project work. All activities within the Shed are on a voluntary basis, with members able to do as much, or as little, as they chose.

However, we do need members to volunteer for additional duties in order to assist with the smooth running of the Shed and to meet our statutory charity obligations. The following is a list of voluntary opportunities for anyone that either has relevant experience, willing to learn, or has a passion to help in their local community. You chose the amount of time you commit to any activity and set your own timescales and deadlines.

Volunteer Opportunities

Fund Raiser

Like all charities, we rely on donations, sponsorship and the sale of craft items to help us meet our running costs. Do you have a passion, or experience for fund raising?

Volunteer at the Shed and help us generate the revenue we require to make sure the Shed can stay open for our members.

Marketing \ Social Media

As we are a community based organisation, we like to let our local community know what we are up to and how we can help them, and they can help us. Do you have a passion for marketing, or are skilled in Social Media, or want to learn?

Get in touch with us at the Shed and help us to build our brand and communicate with our local community.