A Special Gift from Downham Market Men’s Shed Brings Conversation and Connection to High Haven

This summer, we were delighted to be contacted by Downham Market Men’s Shed, part of the UK Men’s Sheds Association, who each year partner with DRINKiQ to launch a new community mission. Their 2024 mission aimed “to bring the power of conversation from inside their sheds and into the local community.”

As part of this initiative, the members of Downham Market Men’s Shed kindly chose Norse Care, High Haven as the perfect community group to support. Their thoughtful idea was to design, build and install a buddy bench – a simple yet powerful way to encourage conversation, connection, and companionship among our residents.

The buddy bench is more than just a seat in the garden – it’s a symbol of friendship and inclusion, reflecting the spirit of Men’s Sheds: people coming together, sharing skills, and supporting one another. It offers our residents a welcoming space to sit, chat, and enjoy each other’s company – sometimes a conversation that can brighten a day or even change a life.

Today, the Men’s Shed team visited High Haven to complete the installation, and it’s already proving a hit! Cups of tea and plenty of conversation were shared as residents admired the beautifully crafted bench and began planning how it will feature in next spring’s garden.

A huge thank you to Downham Market Men’s Shed for their generosity, craftsmanship, and commitment to community wellbeing.

Mission accomplished – and conversations well underway.