Nestled in the village of Kilmacrenan, Donegal, a group of men meet regularly to connect, create and give back — not just to their community, but to one another.
Kilmacrenan Men’s Shed, founded in 2013, began with a simple but powerful idea: that men need space, support, and the chance to talk shoulder to shoulder.
The Shed was originally started by a local man who had lost his spouse. Recognising that others may be feeling isolated or in need of connection, he opened the door to something that would soon become a cornerstone of the local community.
At Uccello Designs, we believe that sometimes the most important work happens over a simple cup of tea. That’s why we were proud to support a recent coffee morning at Kilmacrenan Men’s Shed – and even prouder to have the chance to chat with Raymond McBride, the Shed’s secretary.
Raymond kindly shared the story behind the Shed, its community impact, and what the group means to him and others.
“What inspired me to join the Shed was seeing other men getting involved in community projects and the benefit they seemed to be getting. I’d been recently medically retired from work, and it seemed like something that would help me mentally.”
A Safe Space That Grew from One Kind Gesture
From its humble beginnings, the Kilmacrenan Men’s Shed has grown into a vital part of the local area.
‘’From very small beginnings, it has become a very important part of the village – both for helping others and for helping members keep in touch.’’
For Raymond and many others, the Shed is a place to regain a sense of purpose, routine, and camaraderie.
More Than Just Projects
The Shed is home to all kinds of practical projects – from woodworking to tidy towns initiatives – but its real value lies in the everyday interactions,
‘’Men talk shoulder to shoulder while learning new and old skills in a safe, friendly environment. Having a cup of tea or coffee is just as important as any project.’’
The group works closely with schools, playschools, and support groups, and one of Raymond’s most meaningful moments came from helping the local MS group.
‘’One of my favourite memories is making bird boxes for our local Multiple Sclerosis group. Seeing how beautifully they had painted them made me appreciate how lucky we are to be able to help others.’’
Making the Tea Easier
As anyone familiar with a Men’s Shed knows, the kettle is never too far from reach. Recently, Kilmacrenan was gifted their own Uccello Kettle and Muggi Cup Holder to help make the all-important cuppa safer and easier for everyone to manage.
‘’There’s no one person on kettle duty – the important think is making sure the kettle is always ready. The Uccello Kettle and Muggi are very safe and user-friendly. I’d definitely recommend both to anyone who might feel unsure using a standard kettle.’’
A Coffee Morning With Purpose
In June 2025, the group hosted a coffee morning – not only to showcase the Shed and bring people together, but to raise funds for their own activities and for Mary’s Meals, a charity chosen by members. The event also aligned with Men’s Health Week, marked with a community walk beforehand.
‘’Men’s Sheds are as much about health as they are about projects. The day went very well with a great turnout.’’
Raymond’s Message to Others
For anyone unsure about joining a Men’s Shed, Raymond offers thoughtful encouragement.
‘’If you think you’ve nothing to offer, you do. Your ability to just of and talk – or listen – is a skill in itself. Don’t waste it by staying away if you have even a bit of spare time.’’
From conversation and community projects to cuppas and camaraderie, Kilmacrenan Men’s Shed continues to be a beacon of support in Donegal. It’s proof that real impact doesn’t always come from big gestures – sometimes, it begins with showing up, listening, and putting the kettle on.
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