Seat to soothe souls
A rainbow- bench has been placed in Craigneuk in memory ofwishaw man Graham Fraser and to help others who may be struggling.
Graham, 27, died suddenly and a not- forprofit foundation has been launched in his name.
The young dad’s death shocked the community after his body was discovered near Ryde Road in Wishaw.
His family came up with the idea of placing the distinctive benches at a variety of locations, as an initial go-to point for people struggling with personal issues.
It’s hoped that Graham’s benches will encourage others to sit down and lend an ear to anyone they spot sitting alone on a Graham’s Bench.
The eye-catching multicoloured seats also include contact help numbers that can be called.
Craigneuk Community Council and the area’s local councillor Kenneth Duffy met with Graham’s family to mark the installation of a bench on Glasgow Road.
His parents William and Angela Blackwood, sister Lucy, and partner Natalie were all present, and his daughter Hannah was presented with an angel bracelet.
Community council secretary Margaret Ann Murray said: “These benches give people an opportunity to talk and for someone to listen.
“Graham’s family have been a huge inspiration in what they are doing, putting their own grief and heartache aside to try and help and support those in need, to prevent other families going through what they are.”
The community council presented a £ 200 cheque to Why? — The Graham Fraser Foundation, to allow a second bench to be placed in Craigneuk, and another elsewhere.
Graham’s dad William has been delighted by the uptake on the benches.
He said: “We just want people to sit down on benches and talk again — that’s how simple it is.
“We’re going to produce ones without signs so they can be used in schools and nurseries, places where kids can go to when they are feeling sad. We need to start by getting people to talk about their feelings at a young age.
“A few people have already called the help numbers and we’ve been able to help just by talking with them.”
Councillor Duffy paid tribute to Graham’s family, saying: “It’s hard to put into words my appreciation to Graham’s family for taking the time to chat with me to discuss how we mark this fantastic initiative in Craigneuk.
“We have a mental health crisis in our communities and what this incredible family are doing to help tackle the issue is inspirational.”
Benches have been sited in a host of locations including Coltness, Motherwell and New Stevenston.