/New Trustees Enhance Diversity and Expertise at UK Men’s Sheds Association
– Seven new trustees appointed to strengthen Board to support Men’s Sheds movement
– The Board now includes expertise in finance, technology, health, and community development
– Over half of the new trustees are active participants in Men’s Sheds
– Continued involvement of former trustee ensures organizational continuity
The UK Men’s Sheds Association (UKMSA) has appointed seven new trustees to its Board, bolstering the charity’s skills, experience, and geographic representation in its mission to advocate for the Men’s Sheds movement across the UK.
The newly formed Board features qualified financial professionals and expertise in areas such as technology, artificial intelligence, health and wellbeing, social research, and community development.
“At a time when many charities have reported challenges in attracting people to trustee roles, the quality and the number of applications emphasizes the growing profile of Men’s Sheds and the appeal of UKMSA’s work as a charity,” said Rob Lloyd, chair of trustees. “With 40 applications, we have recruited very specifically against gaps identified by the Board’s skills audit. The new Board brings expertise, and we have increased the number of people who also bring the lived experience of being a Shedder. This grassroots connection is vital for the movement we exist to support.”
Of the new trustees, 57% are active Shedders, with two members also serving as UKMSA volunteer Ambassadors. The Board continues to represent all four UK nations, ensuring at least one trustee from England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
The new trustees include:
– David Algar, who has a background in consumer goods and has published books on Men’s Health, focusing on the social issues affecting men.
– Josh Gooch, currently the Strategy & Operations Manager at LEGO Digital Play, who brings strategic consulting experience from PwC.
– Andrew Machin, an active Shedder, who will serve as Treasurer, contributing over 30 years of finance and governance experience from the NHS.
– Kerry Millett, co-founder of the Broadstairs Town Shed, who has significant community development experience and actively engages in advocacy.
– Bruce Newlands, an award-winning architect and co-founder of the Inverclyde Shed, who is passionate about intergenerational learning and skill-sharing.
– Rob Parker, a qualified accountant with extensive commercial experience, who will enhance organizational risk management.
– Professor Denise Turner, who brings her academic expertise in social work and sociology from the University of Hertfordshire.
Overall, the new Board combines individuals new to charity trustee roles with those possessing extensive experience in the voluntary sector, creating a balance of fresh perspectives and established governance capability.
“Men’s Sheds are a grassroots movement; as a national support body for them, UKMSA is a growing national charity operating in an increasingly complex environment,” Lloyd added. “We now have even more Shedders around the Board table, alongside people with other relevant expertise to help us deliver ‘a Shed for everyone who wants one’. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who applied, and to the new Trustees for the contribution they will make to the Men’s Sheds movement.”
The governance structure retains significant experience, with individuals such as Vice Chair Chris Griffiths, People Committee Chair Jo Philips, and Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee Mark O’Neil continuing in their roles.
Former trustee John Latchford, who stepped down in August 2026 after reaching his re-election limit, will remain involved in a non-voting advisory capacity to provide continuity and organizational knowledge as the new Board begins its work. Mike Jenn, the founder of UKMSA, continues to serve as President.
For more details, visit the UK Men’s Sheds Association website.
