The Plant Dewi men’s project, established in 2017, has addressed the issue of the lack of community projects in the local area specifically designed for men. The men’s project is provided by men, for men, offering a place to ‘have food, a chat and a laugh while meeting new friends.’ They want those involved to feel well, live well, support one another and give something back to the community.
Some of the projects on offer include drop-in activities such as litter picking, gardening, camping, physical activities, ‘Dad and Me’ sessions as well as a chance to cook up some food and share a meal together on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Hub in Diamond Street East, Pembroke Dock.
During lockdown, Plant Dewi have offered virtual drop-ins, which have included support and online cooking sessions, IT support, craft sessions with materials supplied for dads and kids and practical support. The project has also offered one to one support online and telephone support to participants at this time. The project also delivers group sessions that support communication and relationships.
On 18th August, members of the Men’s project began again to undertake community activities and have completed a butterfly / nature garden in a nature spot outside the library in Pembroke Dock with the aid of Pembrokeshire County Council and Keep Wales Tidy who provided a grant for the eco project.
They have also supported the installation of play equipment in a park in the local area and will continue to undertake activities that support the community. Plant Dewi have also delivered a bike upcycling project in Pembroke Dock, with around 100 bikes donated, including children’s bikes donated by Bluestone, which were given as Christmas presents to families in need.
In their annual report for 2018/2019, Plant Dewi published the following figures in relation to the men’s project, which had provided 72 drop in/activity sessions.
- 92% are better able to express feelings and manage stress
- 92% feel more valued by friends and the community
- 100% feel less lonely
- 92% feel more able to cope with life’s challenges
- 100% feel more able to support others.
Plant Dewi Men’s project worker Peter Arnold says,
“It’s been really well received. There isn’t anything much for guys out there. The group gives them somewhere to go where they can talk informally. We focus on supporting families by encouraging men to feel good about themselves – it’s an informal setting, anyone is welcome and if they want to talk, then they can do so when they’re ready.”
Plant Dewi works across Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire offering various types of support for communities.
Visit their Facebook page to follow their ongoing activities and get involved.
