South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth has pledged his support for the “vital” Men’s Shed movement, after the news that the Scottish Government is due to stop all statutory funding in 2023.

Thousands of men benefit from more than 200 Men’s Sheds across Scotland, with dozens in towns across the south of Scotland. The facilities offer community spaces for men to connect and develop new hobbies, with the aim of reducing loneliness and isolation.

The Scottish Men’s Sheds Association (SMSA) said a decision was taken in February last year to “stop all statutory funding” going forward in 2023, with the association branding the decision “devastating”.

Colin Smyth recently added his name to a cross party list of 40 MSPs, urging the Deputy First Minister to reverse the decision.

Colin Smyth said: “Alongside many of my colleagues from across the political divide, I am calling on the Deputy First Minster to reverse the shocking decision to withdraw funding.

“The Men’s Shed movement has proven themselves as a vital resource benefiting men’s health and wellbeing.

“Men’s Sheds help tackle isolation and loneliness, with the movement being described as one of the greatest mental and physical health developments in a generation.

“I hope the Deputy First Minister heeds the outcry and funding can be restored.”