The Shed Project, Martin's Memorial Church in Lewis

This community resource was initiated and is managed by Martin's Memorial Church in Lewis. The Church's vision was for a community space, and The Shed focuses on providing safe spaces for women and men affected by addiction to meet and socialise without "anything getting in the way". Volunteers are key to running these groups, and it's important that users of the services come of their own free will.

The Shed's voluntary, community-based status makes it the first port of call for many seeking help with sensitive addiction issues. The Shed can help participants get the ball rolling with referrals to formal agencies through their links with the homeless and criminal justice services, and charities such as Action for Children etc. Activities for young people are another key element to the work, and The Shed's partnership with Lewis's high school was initiated in response to mental health needs. The informal mentoring offered by youth workers now extends to the local primary school too.