A SUPPORT group which aims to reduce isolation among elderly people has been boosted by a charity grant.

Barrhead Men’s Shed received £1,910 from Age Scotland and this will be used to buy new tools and safety equipment.

The donation – made possible via the Robertson Trust and Scottish Government – will also enable the Robertson Street-based club to build on its community partnerships.

Open to men and women over the age of 50, the Men’s Shed often collaborates with the town’s schools to host birdbox construction workshops.

Members have also been known to create beehives, benches and flower planters for the area’s parks.

Keith Robson, Age Scotland chief executive, said: “Men’s Sheds can play a huge role in reducing loneliness and isolation and the stories we hear from ‘shedders’ goes to prove just that.

“Age Scotland has been delighted to support and enable the development of new sheds across Scotland, doing our bit to help improve the lives of thousands of men.

“We know that you can never underestimate the value in providing a space to allow people to come together and feel welcomed.

“We look forward to seeing how the Barrhead Men’s Shed grows with this new support and I wish all the Shedders well in their individual projects.”

Set up nearly four years ago, the 35-strong group meets regularly to take part in creative, work and recreational activities.

Age Scotland, which supports the rights and wellbeing of older people, created a community development team in 2013.

Since then, the department has worked with 101 Men’s Sheds nationwide, providing financial support in excess of £40,000.