Paralympic gold medallist Stuart Robinson to deliver keynote at UK Men’s Sheds ShedFest 2025
The United Kingdom Men’s Sheds Association (UKMSA) will host ShedFest, its flagship event, at Worcester University Arena on Thursday, July 10, 2025. This annual gathering is not only a celebration of the Men’s Sheds community but also a platform for networking and sharing resources among its members. The event will incorporate the organization’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), allowing for critical discussions on the direction and impact of the initiative.
ShedFest aims to strengthen connections within the Men’s Sheds movement, showcasing the diverse talents and capabilities of its members through live craft demonstrations, hands-on workshops, and a dynamic exhibition hall. Notable participants include Chris Fisher, famously known as “The Blind Woodturner,” alongside organizations such as Titefix, Carveco, Hobsons Brewery, and the Alzheimer’s Society. This year’s event promises to deliver practical advice and creative inspiration, with highlights including demonstrations by heritage specialists skilled in traditional crafts like coracle and chain mail-making.
A significant highlight of the event will be the keynote address from Stuart Robinson MBE, a Paralympic gold medalist renowned in the wheelchair rugby circuit. Robinson, who served as an RAF gunner, lost both legs due to an IED explosion in Afghanistan in 2013. Since then, he has become a leading advocate for inclusivity in sports and has shared his inspiring journey as a two-time Invictus Games champion. Rob Lloyd, chair of UKMSA trustees, expressed his anticipation for Robinson’s participation: “We are honoured to have Stuart Robinson, a truly inspiring ex-serviceman and gold medalist, opening this year’s event.”
The gathering is expected to attract attendees from across the UK, including “Shedders,” supporters, partners, and health and wellbeing organizations, all coming together to acknowledge the impact of the Men’s Sheds initiative in promoting social engagement and wellbeing. This aligns with the UKMSA’s broader mission to foster supportive environments where men can create, learn, and connect, enhancing their mental and emotional health.
Furthermore, the event will incorporate discussions surrounding the national Armed Forces and Veterans Sheds Strategy, which aims to foster the inclusion of veterans into existing Sheds while encouraging the establishment of new ones. This initiative includes a new Armed Forces Accreditation Scheme designed to provide focused support for veteran members, ensuring they have a welcoming space within the community.
ShedFest encapsulates the essence of the Men’s Sheds movement, celebrating not only the accomplishments of its community but also reinforcing the importance of collaboration and camaraderie. “I’m looking forward to meeting Shedders from all across the UK and learning more about the incredible work happening in Sheds every day,” Lloyd noted, heralding the event as a celebration of creativity and community spirit.
For further details regarding ShedFest and the initiatives of the UKMSA, interested parties are encouraged to visit the association's website, where information on how to participate will be continually updated as the event approaches.