Moray MP Douglas Ross speaks out against the Scottish Government's plan cut funding for Men's Sheds
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MORAY'S MP Douglas Ross has urged the Scottish Government to rethink their plan to cut funding for Scotland's Men's Sheds.
Under new Scottish Government plans, Scotland's Men's Sheds will no longer receive Government funding in 2023.
Mr Ross, who has been a supporter of Moray's Men’s Sheds, said that the Men's Sheds Association plays a “crucial role” in improving social isolation among men in the area particularly given how rural Moray is.
Mr 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."
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. However, without government funding it is possible they may struggle to remain open.
Mr Ross added: “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.”
