A contemporary art gallery is set to receive almost £10,000 in government funding to support a mental health project.

Fabrica in Duke Street, Brighton, will receive £9,974 to support its creative wellbeing programme, Men In Sheds, which provides a space for social interaction and skill sharing for men experiencing low mental health.

Fabrica’s “Men’s Shed”, in Kemp Town, allows members to “share the tools and resources they need to work on projects of their own choosing”, with activities providing “structure and companionship” without an emphasis on discussing mental wellbeing.

The shed opened to the public in April 2017 and is part of the city-wide UOK Brighton and Hove mental health network, made up of 16 services to support people in the city.

A spokeswoman for Fabrica said: “The support will mean we can open more hours per week and reach more adult men who are living with low mental health, providing space for those identifying as men to connect with one another and their community, share and develop their skills.

“This will be additional to our Men’s Shed programme which is part of the UOK Mental Health Network, a city-wide referral network to support mental health and wellbeing services.”

The cash is part of a £10 million fund supporting 79 charities across England to help prevent suicide.

The extra money, part of the government’s Suicide Prevention Strategy, aims to support helpline services and support in schools and groups in areas with the highest rates of suicide.

Among the other charities receiving funding is the Beachy Head Chaplaincy Team, which will receive £245,386.

The money will be distributed to charities in April.

Minister for mental health and MP for Lewes Maria Caulfield said: “Every suicide is a tragedy which leaves a terrible mark on the families and communities affected.

“Non-profit organisations play a hugely important role in supporting people with their mental health and preventing suicide in England.

“This new funding will support people who need it the most and build on the brilliant work happening across the country on suicide prevention.”