Community Resource Hubs
What is a Community Resource Hub or Climate Hub?
Community Resource Hubs, also known as Climate Hubs or Climate Centres, are community-led spaces that are emerging across the UK in response to the climate crisis. They recognise that while governments must take ambitious action, local communities also have an important role in creating practical, positive change.
These hubs bring together residents, businesses, schools, local authorities, universities, churches and community groups to develop local climate action plans. They encourage people to adopt more sustainable lifestyles through activities such as talks, workshops, refill shops, repair cafés and other practical initiatives.
Many hubs also operate as community resource centres, including scrap stores, makerspaces and Men’s Sheds, promoting reuse, repair, green skills and community wellbeing. These are popping up all of the time, so keep an eye out for one forming in your area. Let us know if you find one we can add to the list. Or why not set one up with your local community!
Men’s Shed
What is a Men’s Shed or Community Shed?
A Men’s Shed is a community-based, non-profit workshop and social space designed specifically to help men connect, learn new skills and reduce social isolation. Members, affectionately called “Shedders,” gather to work on practical projects like woodworking, mending, and crafts, or simply to enjoy a cup of tea and a chat. While the name suggests a tiny backyard tool house, Men’s Sheds are often housed in converted warehouses, garages or community centres. They are essentially communal hubs operating as relaxed, member-led clubs.
Key activities & benefits:
- Skill Sharing: Members pass down trades, mentor younger members, or learn entirely new skills like 3D printing, computing, and cooking.
- Community Projects: Sheds often give back to the local area by making birdhouses, fixing community benches, or assisting with local restorations.
- Wellbeing Focus: The movement originally started in Australia in the 1990s as a proactive way to improve older men’s mental and physical health by giving them a sense of purpose and camaraderie. Whereas a Community Shed welcomes people of any gender, age or background.
You can find your nearest Men’s Shed here.
Library of Things
What is a Library of Things?
A Library of Things (LofT) is a community-based lending system where people can borrow objects instead of buying them, promoting sharing, sustainability and access to infrequently used items.
Catalogues vary by location, but many offer access to DIY tools, gardening equipment, kitchen items, leisure equipment and other household essentials. All items can be browsed and booked online, making it easy for residents to find what they need when they need it.
Borrowing is straightforward, affordable and flexible, whether residents are tackling a home project, trying out a new hobby or preparing for a one‑off event. These are popping up all of the time, so keep an eye out for one forming in your area. Let us know if you find one not on this page so we can add it. Or why not set one up with your local community!
