Our shed provides a haven for adult men experiencing low mental health. Here, members can engage in free, creative workshops, pursuing their practical interests in a supportive environment.

Thanks to funding secured through to December 2025, we’re excited to launch a Men’s Art Group—a reimagined version of the Shed that continues to support men’s mental health through creativity and connection.

Sessions now run weekly on Mondays at St Richard’s Community Centre in Hangleton, a welcoming venue with a strong community spirit. Activities will include drawing, sewing, heat press design, and other creative practices. Both existing “Shedders” and new members are warmly welcomed to join.

What is a Men’s Shed?

Fabrica’s Men in Sheds is part of a global movement that began in Australia in the 1980s, aimed at enhancing men’s health through creative engagement and camaraderie. We first opened in April 2017, offering a space in central Brighton where men could meet, work shoulder-to-shoulder, and find friendship through making.

Our original Shed space—transformed by our dedicated members into a welcoming and accessible workshop—offered free, practical workshops for adult men experiencing low mental health. It was a place to share a cuppa, a chat, and a sense of belonging.

Our approach has always been informal and inclusive. We focus on activity-led connection—less talking about mental health, more doing things together. We’re proud to continue that ethos through our new Men’s Art Group.

Fabrica's Men in Sheds Brighton is part of the citywide UOK Brighton & Hove - a cross-sector network of 16 services which support and connect people in the city who are experiencing low mental health. The Shed first opened to the public in April 2017, initially supported by Brighton & Hove Clinical Commissioning. Since opening we are grateful to have received support from The Homity Trust, Chalk Cliff Trust, Chapman Charitable Trust, W.G. Edwards Charitable Foundation, Hall and Woodhouse, Paley Trust, BUPA, Percy Bilton Charity, Veolia, Suicide Prevention Fund, and Brighton Lions.

Join Our Community

If you or someone you know is interested in joining, please contact us at [email protected].

Woodworking Opportunities in Brighton

While our woodworking programme is currently paused, here are some local alternatives where you can continue making:

• The Wood Store – Volunteer opportunities in woodworking and reclamation

• Brighton Community Workshop – Affordable, membership-based maker space

• Good News Shed – A free-to-join, church-run men’s shed

• Buld Brighton – A fully-equipped membership shed with workshop facilities

• Making It Out – A creative social enterprise supporting people post-prison, homelessness, or addiction