Darragh's Soapbox: Waterford's new men's shed welcomes refugees

In Waterford City, nestled next to the Viking House Refugee Hostel, lies the world’s only Men’s Shed tailored for refugees.

The New Community Men’s Shed has been active for five years, serving as a vital gathering place for community members from nearby direct provision centres. Recently, several members were asked to share their experiences in Ireland with the Waterford News & Star.

Muhammed, who arrived in Waterford from Pakistan last year, said: 

“I came to the Men’s Shed to help me learn English. It’s very helpful and my English is getting better since coming here and it’s so nice to meet new people. I like living in Waterford, and I have visited many different parts of the county to see the views.” 

Samson from Nigeria added: 

“I came to Ireland in January, and I think it’s a very nice place. Tonight is my first time at the Men’s Shed. It’s very, very interesting and everyone is so friendly, and I will definitely come back. We are all sharing an experience here, and we are helping each other learn how to live in Ireland.” 

Rachid, who moved to Waterford from Algeria last September said; 

“For me, Waterford is quiet and I love the mountains and how calm it is here, it helps clear your head.” 

Rachid also mentioned that he joined the Men’s Shed to engage in conversations with fellow members and to aid in his English language learning journey.

Speaking further, founding member Frank Kennedy said, “We’re acting as a big brother, a stepping stone, to help advise people and try tell them how they can apply their background and skills to life in Ireland. This group of people, a lot of them are quite young, and have never been away from home, and so they’re adrift when they come here and they can feel alone."

"I think also that if we could get employers to take a few of the lads on for a week as interns, to give them a taste of what it’s like in a working environment, it would go such a long way."