“Chatty Bench” encouraging people to get talking comes to Peel Park

A “Chatty Bench”, which encourages isolated people to socialise and get out in nature has been added to Peel Park.

Organised by voluntary group The Friends of Peel Park, and local charity START, the bench was installed in time for Mental Health Awareness week (15-21st May).

It can be found on the main path in the park in front of the play area, and organisers are encouraging passers-by to volunteer five minutes of their time to get talking.

A Chatty Bench gives people an opportunity to chat and communicate when they may just be feeling lonely and isolated, or simply just like to chat

David Marsden, Secretary of the Friends of Peel Park group said: “We wanted to provide an area in the park where people can connect with one another. The park is such a beautiful outdoor space and a huge diverse cross section of people use this space regularly.

“Anyone who sits on the bench is encouraged to chat to other users of the bench… and we encourage people to utilise it. If you are passing this bench and see someone sat on please take five minutes out of your day to take a seat and chat away. You may make all the difference to someone else day.”