A BARRHEAD project which helps to tackle social isolation has been praised at the Scottish Parliament.

West Scotland MSP Paul O’Kane paid tribute to the Barrhead Men’s Shed as a place that “provides a lifeline to many in our community” during a Holyrood debate.

The Labour man was speaking as MSPs discussed the subject of the Men’s Shed movement and its importance in encouraging people to interact and talk about their feelings.

Mr O’Kane told his colleagues: “In my community, we are fortunate enough to have access to our own Men’s Shed just down the road in Barrhead.

“The community Men’s Shed in Barrhead does so much more than provide a space for crafting and woodwork. It provides a lifeline to many in our community and enables older people – both men and women – to come together and share a space with one another.

“The Barrhead Men’s Shed does amazing work and we can all learn so much from its members’ example of kindness and respect to all.

“Every time I have visited, I have felt that warmth and kindness and the real buzz that exists around the place, with people coming together.”

The local Men’s Shed is based at the Barrhead Skills Centre, in Robertson Street, and is playing an important role as residents seek company after more than two tough years during the Covid pandemic.

Mr O’Kane said: “When I saw that the debate on Men’s Sheds was happening, there was no doubt about which one I was going to speak of.

“The Barrhead Men’s Shed typifies that great community spirit and a warm and welcoming social interaction between locals.

“There is a lot to be said for people having that option to go somewhere in their community where they can pass time, talk to friends and work on some kind of project.

“I’d encourage anyone who has thought of visiting a Men’s Shed in their local area to do so.”

For more information, visit barrheadmensshed.weebly.com or send an email to seccybms@gmail.com.