Southwark (Parliament Politics Magazine) – The Rotherhithe Shed in Southwark urges public support as its fundraiser nears halfway point, aiming to connect isolated older people through making and building.
The Southwark community project that everybody knows and loves has served over 200 people in the past eleven years from the partnership of Time & Talents and the local charity London Bubble Theatre.
The Shed was formally open for adults and families two days a week, but due to funding issues, Time & Talents and London Bubble Theatre have reduced their operation to one day a week.
The fundraiser that was launched at the end of September has raised nearly £2,300, but they still need £6,000 to sustain the project for the term.
Every Thursday, the group meets in the purposeful workshop in the London Bubble Theatre area to connect with each other, fix things and build friendships.
Ray, a regular at the Shed said:
“I am surprised when I hear people have donated, it is so generous. All of the Shedders and community are touched by the video and article that came out about it all.”
Michael, who is a facilitator at the Shed and helps support the attendees said:
“We’re thrilled at how the fundraiser has started off so strongly. We are so pleased that 39 percent of the goal has already been reached.
Now we need to encourage people to tell their friends and family to reach as many people as possible. Every little helps to stay open a little longer and great to have the money for some additional sessions already.”
On October 22–23, Casson and Friends, an outside theater company, staged “Shed Stories,” a production that was inspired by Shed patrons, at the London Bubble Theatre.
The documentary-style performance, which they claim is focused on “human, humorous and heartwarming tales of making sawdust, friends, and cups of tea,” blended dance and movement with real-life interviews with Shedders to create an engrossing story of camaraderie and support.
Flovia, who has lived in Rotherhithe for over 20 years, said:
“Please consider donating so we can sustain and grow an important resource for local people. Lots of people come for the social aspect, not the just practical one.
The Rotherhithe Shed is really important to me. When we had the two sessions, you could advance projects twice as quickly, but it’s much busier now and you have to book.”
The Shedders are also reaching out to local organisations to appeal to funding.
Are there local events or volunteer opportunities to help raise funds?
Community shops and craft sessions frequently serve as informal fundraising events where attendees can share, contribute, and learn new chops. Volunteers can help with organizing sessions, drinking actors, maintaining tools and accoutrements , and supporting creative systems, helping keep the space running easily.
Fundraising events, including addresses, exhibitions, and small- scale deals of drafted particulars, are sometimes held to raise mindfulness and induce support. Interested individuals can communicate with the organizers Devon and Lucy via dispatch or phone to express interest in volunteering or to learn about forthcoming events.
The cooperation with London Bubble Theatre Company also offers occasional performances and conditioning linked to the Shed’s community charge, furnishing further levy and support openings.
