Housebuilders provide Oakley Men’s Shed with a donation towards new tools

Over the years, Oakley Men’s Shed members have used their skills for various community projects, such as repairing items, fixing communal spaces, and installing noticeboards and duck houses to foster community. However, their busy work meant their tools required an upgrade.

Thanks to Cala's donation, they were able to replace their chainsaw and purchase a new router. This addition has made a big difference, allowing members to utilise their previously unused router table. Now, members can enjoy learning new skills and finishing their projects.

The UK Men’s Sheds Association helps adults create dedicated spaces where they can pursue practical interests, all while building social connections, friendships, learning new skills, and sharing their knowledge with like-minded people.

It has over 1,500 sheds across the UK, with its Oakley location founded in May 2018 after members were looking for a way to build connections and share their skills during retirement. Since then, it’s been helping people find community and combat loneliness across Hampshire.

The donation is part of Cala’s Community Pledge initiative at its Worting Park development in Basingstoke. The Community Pledge incorporates tailored measures that address specific community needs, including donations, volunteering, learning programmes, support initiatives and more.

Eric Askew, Chair at Oakley Men’s Shed, said: “On behalf of the members, I want to thank Cala for their generous donation. A community group like ours relies on the support of surrounding businesses to ensure we can continue to give back to our community through repairs and projects that allow us to showcase our creativity across the village.

"Now that we have access to improved equipment, we can provide members with the right tools to learn new skills and produce higher-quality projects - just in time to craft a new noticeboard at the village pond and prepare for village events.

"Our shed is much more than a workspace; it’s a welcoming hub where people can learn new skills and build connections with like-minded individuals. It's been fantastic to watch our group grow over the past 8 years, and we’re really looking forward to what this year holds for us."

Hannah Moody, Marketing Manager at Cala Homes (Southern), said: “At Cala Homes, we’re passionate about investing in the community we develop in to support residents and provide them with access to support, be that environmental, social or skills-based, via our Community Pledge. It's fantastic to hear that our donation has helped locals develop new skills and will continue to support the village with many useful projects.

“Initiatives such as Men’s Shed are especially meaningful to us because they are community groups that some of our colleagues might join, allowing us to continue contributing and connecting with those in our industry. It’s wonderful that people have access to a practical space where they can forge items, develop skills, and lifelong friendships through shared interests.”

Cala’s Worting Park development offers a unique collection of 1–4-bedroom homes set within the scenic grounds of Worting House, a Grade II* listed building. It combines contemporary design with historic charm to offer a truly unique living experience. Residents can enjoy the serenity of the countryside while having access to Basingstoke’s lively town centre, just minutes away.

To find out more about Cala Homes Community Pledge visit: www.cala.co.uk/sustainability/building-communities/community-pledge