Moray MP Douglas Ross says he is “dismayed” at planned cuts by the SNP-Green government that will see no funding given to ‘Men’s Sheds in 2023.
Douglas says this is a “hammer blow” to groups across Moray, which have continued to expand in recent years.
The number of Men’s Sheds across Scotland has grown from five to more than 200 in less than a decade, with branches in Moray including ones in Elgin, Forres, Keith and District, Cullen and Fochabers.
Douglas has been a strong supporter of Men’s Sheds in his constituency and says they play a “crucial role” in improving social isolation among men in the area particularly given how rural Moray is.
He is calling on SNP-Green ministers to rethink their “misguided” plans to stop funding the association, with many branches already struggling with the effects of cost-of-living crisis and trying to upkeep suitable premises.
Moray MP Douglas Ross said: “I have been delighted to see the expansion of Men’s Sheds across Moray in recent years. They play a crucial role in improving social contact among men across the region.
“Many of their members already struggle with feeling isolated given how rural and remote communities in Moray are, but Men’s Sheds have given them an outlet to meet like-minded men and take part in fun activities, and often supporting local projects.
“I have been proud to support branches in Moray, including continuing to help organisations find suitable premises. The cutting of this funding from the SNP-Green government will have come as a major shock to branches across Moray and Scotland and, if it goes ahead, will be a hammer blow to their future prospects.
“I am dismayed that ministers have decided to pull the rug from under Men’s Sheds organisations. They are already struggling with the effects of the cost-of-living crisis and this will put their very future at threat.
“I urge them to think again and for local SNP MSP Richard Lochhead to stand up for local Men’s Sheds by joining me in calling for this funding to be guaranteed for next year and the years ahead.”