Applications Open for ‘Scottish Men’s Shed of the Year’ Awards 2026

The search is officially on for Scottish Men’s Shed of the Year 2026, as applications open to celebrate another milestone year for Scotland’s thriving Men’s Sheds movement.

Led by the Scottish Men’s Sheds Association (SMSA) — Scotland's leading men’s health and wellbeing charity — the awards recognise the extraordinary role Sheds play in supporting men’s health, wellbeing, and connection in communities across the country.

Now in its eighth year, the programme continues to shine a spotlight on the powerful, often life-changing impact of Sheds — from tackling isolation to building skills, friendships, and purpose.

SMSA CEO Jason Schroeder said: “Our awards programme has come a long way since it first launched back in 2019, just like the movement itself. Today, we’re immensely proud to now support more than 12,000 men — all volunteers — across over 210 open or developing Shed groups in every one of Scotland’s 32 local authority areas.

“We want to hear your Shed’s story through the Awards application and celebrate the incredible work you’ve delivered over the past 12 months and give it the recognition it deserves.”

Following last year’s successful introduction, the awards will again recognise excellence across five regional categories:

  • East Coast (North)
  • East Coast (South)
  • West Coast (North)
  • West Coast (South)
  • Highlands & Islands

Each region will crown its own winner, ensuring five Sheds gain well-deserved recognition with a regional title — with all five progressing into the running for the national title.

From there, the SMSA board will select three finalists, who will go forward to a public vote to decide the overall winner.

Sheds that are members of the SMSA can apply online via the SMSA website at https://scottishmsa.org.uk/smsotyawards

Key dates:

  • Tuesday 30th June (12 noon): Applications close and regional judging begins
  • Friday 28 August: Winner announced at the SMSA Gathering, AGM & Awards event in Perth

Taking part in the Awards is an opportunity to shine a light on the achievements and the difference Sheds make in our communities. It offers the chance to raise the Shed’s profile locally and nationally, gain recognition for volunteers, and celebrate the impact of the work over the past year.

The SMSOTY Awards offer real visibility and prestige — showcasing Sheds as part of Scotland’s growing and valued Men’s Shed movement, while helping to inspire and attract new members, partners, and supporters.

Recognition includes:

  • Fourth and fifth place Sheds will receive their regional title and a certificate for 2026 from the SMSA.
  • The three finalist Sheds will each receive a regional title, along with a Gold, Silver or Bronze award, a targe trophy, a certificate, and a range of prizes from SMSA and awards sponsors and supporters — all designed to strengthen and support their Shed 

To learn more about the SMSA charity, join as an individual member for FREE and discover your local Shed using the Scottish ‘Find a Shed’ map, which lists over 210 Sheds nationwide, please visit www.scottishmsa.org.uk.