Society must do more to support vulnerable people says Men's Shed leader

The death of a Roscommon man who was found alone in poor living conditions has prompted a call for society to do more to identify and support vulnerable people.

Pat Towey, county coordinator for Roscommon Men's Sheds, said the circumstances surrounding the man's death raised difficult questions about loneliness and isolation.

An inquest heard that the man, who was in his sixties and lived alone in extremely poor conditions, died from advanced cancer. A concerned cousin found him dead in a kitchen chair. He had not been seen for about 10 days.

Mr Towey stressed that in many cases of isolation, like the one outlined at the recent inquest, families, neighbours and friends do everything they can to help, but those offers of assistance are often refused.

“It’s not the first case of this type of tragedy, but how can we in society do our best to limit the percentage of these events in the future,” he said.

The well-known Ballaghaderreen shop owner believes communities need to become more aware of the signs of isolation and less fearful of reaching out. He believes everyone has a role to play, from retailers and business owners to parishioners, neighbours and community groups.

"As a society, we owe gratitude to people like that man who was found in those conditions. If you see someone struggling, talk to them. Meet them at their level. If they trust you, they're open to change,” he said.

He believes isolation rarely happens overnight. Instead, people gradually become trapped in routines and circumstances that become normal to them.

"Nobody sets out to be lonely or isolated. It just happens. You can have a good pension, but no friends, nowhere to go and no way of getting there. You get used to something and it becomes your normal. People can become ashamed of their house, ashamed of their circumstances, ashamed of debt, ashamed of illness. Then they stop letting people in and the door closes,” he said.

Through his involvement with Men's Sheds, Mr Towey has encountered many men who may be carrying some trauma, be it a health condition or emotional distress. In Roscommon and across the country, the concept of the Men’s Shed plays an important part in integration and keeping men connected.

"Talking in sheds is instrumental in helping men pass the time, having a reason to get up and get out, and enjoy the company of other men."

Mr Towey explained that Men's Sheds often provide a first point of contact for men reluctant to seek help elsewhere. Concerns raised in confidence can be passed on discreetly to health professionals or community support services where appropriate.

He urged men who may be struggling to seek out a local Men's Shed and ask someone to bring them along.

"Shed life does its very best to accommodate any man who feels left behind, who feels they have nothing to look forward to or be part of.

"We have to make a better effort. We can't be letting people feel abandoned. As men, we stand together for each other in good times and bad times,” he said.