Our projects
It’s not about fixing men – it’s about engaging.
We have measurable successes. Our most significant to date was to set up a Men’s Shed in the centre of Norwich. Successfully run by a volunteer committee; this experience, along with running Journey into Manhood – a mentoring programme for boys moving into adulthood, and Caring Dads – a change programme for men at risk of perpetrating domestic abuse, has positively shaped our thinking.
From our experience, the research and what our network have told us, we have identified a significant need for a wider programme of activities and support to help local men with identity, purpose and meaning. In response we have identified the need and potential to build an expanded range of services, activities and opportunities.
Pit Stop
Pitt Stop is a space for any man to find friendship and social connection via various informal activities. There is no need to book, just drop in and it’s free. We also welcome new ideas for development. Activities include games, crafts, art, model-making, with access to courses in subjects like cookery or getting fit. Pitt stop is a good opportunity to have a go at something, and no previous experience needed. we also offer 1-to1 advice on topic like health, money and computing.
Sessions are held in Norwich, Kings Lynn, Cromer, Great Yarmouth, Dereham and North Walsham.
To find out more and for a full list of activities plus when and where sessions are held please go to the main Pit Stop page
You can also contact Andy Wood on 07584 253441 or email andy@menscraft.org.uk
Note: Sessions are currently under review due to Covid 19, please keep an eye on the website or get in touch to check on opening.
Pit stop
To go to the main Pit Stop page
The nurturing power of nature.
MensCraft runs several different types of activities and events out in nature at various beautiful and remote locations.
A Vision Quest experience enables participants to seek guidance and insight from the natural world, always our mirror if we choose to open ourselves to it.
A Men’s Lodge offers the opportunity to share and explore common issues and concerns around an open fire; to participate in Council and a sweat lodge. Hearing and exploring the meaning of ancient myths and legends is another method we use to help us make sense of our personal and collective journeys through life as men.
Manifest provides a longer retreat into nature: camping for several days these events combine the methods of personal and group exploration described above.
Men’s Sheds
We offer support and look to align our work with other Men’s Sheds in Norfolk. We can offer support with for example governance, funding and operational policies.
We set up Norwich Men’s Shed. And still share a building and work closely with together. For contacts and more information go to the website here.
Creative Arts
A monthly event for men to come together and practise the art of oral storytelling in a supportive and alcohol-free environment. Come and tell a tale or two, whether it be a traditional story from around the world, a true story from your life or something you’ve made up. Or just come to listen and be entertained – no pressure to perform!
Complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits in the interval.
Free – Suggested donation £5.
Seminars & Talks
Seminars to date have included ‘Men’s experiences of Child Welfare services’ and ‘Engaging Men in their Well being’
Future topics planned include:
- Male Psychology & trauma
- ‘What are men’s responses to #MeToo’ and ‘What are Men’s responses to the Climate Emergency’?
- Raising Boys
More details to follow
Muck in
We need someone with the vision, the energy, the time and the know-how to develop and expand the Men’s Institute or MI. We are also interested in expanding the MI beyond NR2 into market towns in Norfolk.
If you wish to be part of this please let us know. We also currently need Pitt Crew volunteers, Associates and Directors Contact us if you’re interested in getting involved.
Events
New show about fathers to tour Norfolk
A free show about dads is set to tour the city and county later this month. This project is a unique collaboration between popular local theatre company The Common Lot, the UEA School of Social Work, the Norwich voluntary organisation Menscraft, and Dads Matter, a...
The art and science of engaging men
THE ART AND SCIENCE OF ENGAGING MEN 14th October 4pm A hybrid event - join us in person or online Via Zoom or at 47-51 Pitt Street, Norwich, NR3 1DE Register via https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-art-and-science-of-engaging-men-registration-168112640433 FACILITATING...
Manifest
18th to 23rd September, 2021 This is a five day event aimed at deepening our connection with our brothers, with nature. In a culture which places pressure on men to conform to a certain modes of behaviour, Manifest has been created to offer men a safe space to find...
Donate
We are appreciate your donations large or small and are grateful for your support & encouragement.
Podcasts
The Masculinity Conversations.
In association with Mantor
There are a variety of podcasts compiled by Sam Ruddock and James McDermott. which you can find here.
‘There isn’t one form of masculinity or being a man. There cannot be one mask that we put on. So we have to embrace the notion that masculinity can be many different things expressed by many different people.’ – Sam Ruddock
You can also listen to the podcasts on Anchor, Apple Podcasts, Castbox, Google Podcasts, Stitcher and Spotify.
Also please take a look at James’ books