Armed Forces Lead

Armed Forces Lead

The Shed movement is growing and this is an exciting time to join UKMSA as we work to support and promote Sheds for the improvement of health and wellbeing, adding years to life and life to years.

Funded by support from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust’s Embedding Prevention Veterans Suicide (EPVS) programme we - seek a full time Armed Forces Lead to support the creation of new Men’s Sheds nationally, focussed particularly on those soon to leave the Armed Forces, reservists and veterans.

We already have many veterans who are Shedders (people who participate at Men’s Sheds nationwide) and have shared their stories of how much Sheds mean to them and how they have changed their lives for the better. There are several areas across the UK where the concentration of Sheds is relatively low. We are now seeking a rapid growth in the number of Sheds in these areas, targeted at this group, which will have a significant and direct impact on reducing suicide, loneliness and improving wellbeing.

This pilot project will run for 2 years, in which time we expect this role to work with those communities affected to develop a national Armed Forces and Veteran’s Sheds Strategy (including a Veteran's Accreditation Scheme for existing Sheds).

This is an exciting pilot for UKMSA. It will be supported not only by our own organisation, but also by our strong partnerships, including the Royal British Legion (RBL).

Men’s Sheds create community connection, increased social contact, the sharing of skills and a continuation of the camaraderie experienced in the Armed Forces. This role will see you primarily engaging with communities to help others develop new Sheds in a way we know to be effective.

This is a home-based role with frequent travel across the area, with occasional overnight stays and some national meetings. It will require a successful DBS check.

Please apply as soon as possible as we will be arranging to meet potential candidates at the earliest opportunity.