Men’s Sheds in Ogmore recently welcomed a delegation of researchers from Japan, marking a significant step in an international effort to combat social isolation and loneliness and to promote well-being.
The visit organised by the UK Men’s Sheds saw delegates from Japan’s Pokke Koran Shed touring two of Ogmore’s Men’s Sheds.
Dr Ayahito Ito of Tohoku University and Dr. Risa Takashima of Hokkaido University are leading a government-backed study on social isolation in Japan. Their fact-finding mission to South Wales is focused on exploring the Men’s Shed model as a solution to male loneliness. The researchers have already launched two pilot sheds in Kumamoto and Sapporo, with the latter successfully attracting over 40 men aged 40 to 80.
The tour, led by Robert Visintainer, the UK Men’s Sheds’ National Development Manager for Wales, included visits to the Squirrels Nest in Tondu — the first Men’s Shed in Wales — and the Caerau Men’s Shed workshop in Nantyffyllon, Maesteg.
Local MS Huw Irranca-Davies has been a champion of Men’s Sheds for many years, and has even hosted showcase events at the Senedd. He and a full delegation of invited guests including Shed members, the Honorary Consul of Japan Mr Keith Dunn OBE, Caroline Ellis CEO UK Men Shed Association, Sarah Murphy MS and others provided a warm welcome to the Japanese visitors.
In true Men’s Shed style, the visit was filled with acts of friendship and hospitality and guests were treated to Welsh music performed by students from Maesteg Comprehensive School and presented with gifts handcrafted by Shed members.
To commemorate the occasion, a cherry blossom tree was planted at the Caerau Men’s Shed’s workshop, symbolising the growing bond between the two nations. This spirit of friendship culminated with the official twinning of the Caerau Men’s Shed with the Pokke Koran Shed in Sapporo, Japan.
Following the event, Ogmore MS Huw Irranca-Davies said: “Our Men’s Sheds throughout Ogmore do tremendous work, offering friendship and hospitality to everyone in true ‘Shed’ style.
This new partnership with Japan marks a significant step in the global fight against male loneliness, connecting communities across continents. It also coincides with the Welsh Government’s fifth ‘Wales and Japan 2025’ campaign, which aims to forge new cultural and economic ties between our nations.
Thank you to all the Shed members for making the visit such a resounding success. I’m sure their warmth and exceptional hospitality left a lasting impression on our guests. They should be proud of their Welsh hospitality, and the incredible work they do in the community.”
