The Belturbet Hens’ Shed marked its 10th anniversary on June 3 with a commemorative event at the Slieve Russell Hotel, featuring meteorologist Joanna Donnelly as the guest speaker. Since its founding in 2016, the community group has grown from a small collective into an organization with nearly 160 active members, providing a social outlet for women across County Cavan.
How the Belturbet Hens’ Shed began
The organization was established in 2016 by Cavan Arts Officer Karina Charles. According to Charles, the name was initially chosen as a “tongue-in-cheek” response to the success of the Men’s Shed movement. The initiative aimed to provide a space for women to socialize and develop new interests. The group saw early success, though it faced a transition period when co-founders Karina Charles and Emer Henry stepped down months after the launch. First chairperson Hilary McPhilips, who joined the group during a difficult personal period, led the effort to sustain the organization, organizing a committee to oversee its continued operations.
Why the group remains significant
The Hens’ Shed serves as a social support system for women navigating life transitions, including retirement, bereavement, and relocation. Chairperson Maureen Tully, who joined the group after moving to the area during the Covid-19 pandemic, describes the organization as a “virtual hammock” that provides support without drawing attention to itself. Current members, including Emer Hyland and Bernie McCabe, cite the group as a vital outlet for meeting people in a community where they previously had few connections. The group operates out of the Goods Store at Belturbet Railway Station, hosting activities ranging from air fryer demonstrations and CPR courses to decoupage lessons.
What happens next for the organization
Following its 10th-anniversary celebration, the group is likely to continue its focus on community-based projects. Having previously secured €10,000 in funding for the “Women on the Border” project via the Shared Island Civic Society Fund, the organization may pursue similar collaborative initiatives. As the group maintains its policy of keeping religion and politics outside of their meetings, it is expected to remain a focal point for social integration in the region. The committee may also look to expand its internal skill-sharing programs, which have historically included everything from line dancing to emotional intelligence workshops.
