About us

MensCraft is the leading organisation in Norfolk focusing exclusively on men’s health and wellbeing.   We were founded in 2010 and in 2012 set up the Norwich Men’s Shed, one of the first in the UK, and now a successful, independent charity in its own right.  

In 2020 MensCraft changed from a Community Interest Company (CIC) to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO).  We have grown in recent years and now have a team of staff working across Norfolk and a small management team which is supported by an active Board of Trustees.   

Our range of projects and programmes support men to manage life challenges such as unemployment, debt, family breakdown, parenting, addiction, bereavement, loneliness – and to address the emotions and behaviours such challenges may generate, including lack of self-worth, anger or withdrawal. 

Our activities successfully improve men’s connections & a sense of belonging.  After 6 months of our support, men report:  

• Less socially isolated (96%) 
• Improved wellbeing (91%) 
• Less hopelessness (88%) 
• Improved purpose & positive motivation (87%) 
• Improved mental health (86%) 

Our approach, our experience and our exceptional team of staff and volunteers enable us to work effectively with men who mainstream services find difficult to reach.

Our evidence and practice-based programmes are backed by an in-depth understanding of boys’ development, masculinity, male psychology and parenting, all of which have relevance for education, the criminal justice system, social welfare, families and youth provision.

We work collaboratively with other providers including the University of East Anglia School of Social Work and across the new Integrated Care structures. We are embedded in the social prescribing networks and receive referrals from across health and social work disciplines.

Pit Stop:

The Pit Stop brings men together through activities and conversation to build friendship, connection and a sense of belonging. MensCraft hosts various Pit Stop meetings each week. The inspiration for these Pit Stops is the idea of men functioning best when they have the solidarity of their own pit crew: other men who they can regularly check-in with for support, understanding, laughter, light-hearted and stimulating discussion and activity.

Each Pit Stop is facilitated by an experienced and friendly coordinator. The success of our first Pit Stop, in Norwich, has led to us creating similar versions across towns in Norfolk and Waveney with more to follow owing to their demand and popularity. Come along, join in and see for yourself!