Knowledge paves the way back into society
In the GalGael workshop, which is open to all, people who are socially excluded can create objects from wood and build traditional Gaelic boats, together with retired timber workers, artisans and volunteers. The knowledge they gain, the structure of a daily routine and the trust placed in them enables them to build a future.
The GalGael workshop, accessible to everyone, is a place where people who are marginalised by society can learn the craft of woodworking and boat building, alongside retired woodworkers, skilled craftspeople and volunteers. The trust and knowledge gained paves their way back into society.
THE PROJECT
The social enterprise GalGael is dedicated to preserving and passing on the ancient craft of woodworking and traditional Gaelic boot building. Everyone is welcome in the open workshops: artisans but also the long-term unemployed, the disadvantaged with physical, mental or social problems and those who are interested in being trained in traditional boat building. Everyone can learn and work, everyone receives a warm meal daily. GalGael holds workshops, maintains its “open workbench” for separate projects and organises markets or popular boat races in the Viking style in order to raise money.
THE AIM
Irrespective of the political and economic climate, GalGael must continually provide stability for those whose lives are anything but secure. GalGael is not just a work-based training programme. Working in the community and working with wood reinforces psychomotor skills, creativity and problem-solving skills. The safe and tolerant working environment gives people a purpose, stability and confidence in both themselves and society. More than 1,000 people have found their path back to a harmonious life in this way. However, poverty and the number of socially isolated people or people with poor mental health are increasing. GalGael will ensure that people find their place in the workshop by expanding services, expertise, as well as increasing collaboration with support networks. We support them in this endeavour.
