Over £9,000 in funding has been secured for a new Men's Shed in Ballyclare, Co Antrim.

The funding has been awarded to Grange Youth and Community Group, under the Department's Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy, for the procurement of tools and equipment for the new Men's Shed in the town centre.

A Men's Shed is a larger version of the typical man's shed in the garden and is a place of leisure where men can come together for social interaction, to work on a project and share and learn new skills, which in turn may improve employment opportunities.

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Communities Minister Paul Givan said: "The Men's Shed concept is a fantastic opportunity for local men to get involved in community based activities. It is a great place which encourages skill-sharing, informal learning and social interaction.

"It can also contribute greatly to the health and well being of individuals through an environment which encourages them to talk with each other and can give a real sense of achievement and value through finished projects."

The welcoming environment also assists men in dealing with their reluctance to discuss health and wellbeing issues, by providing a support network to participants by encouraging them to become involved in a broader range of programmes targeted at addressing their specific needs.

(CD/LM)