New benches are a quiet place to think
Three new speciallymade benches have been placed in country parks in North Lanarkshire to encourage people to give themselves some time to gather their thoughts or share their worries.
The Breathing Space Bench Project is aimed at creating welcoming places and encouraging people to share a bit of time for listening and talking, or by reaching out and showing kindness and compassion.
The benches are located in Strathclyde Country Park, Drumpellier Country Park in Coatbridge and Centenary Park in Airdrie.
Suicide Prevention North Lanarkshire teamed up with Breathing Space Scotland to encourage local people and visitors to the parks to take some time to sit and reflect or share their feelings on the special benches.
The move comes just a few years after the family of Wishaw man Graham Fraser located a number of brightly coloured “rainbow benches” in his memory across Lanarkshire with a similar purpose.
Depute Leader of North Lanarkshire Council, Paul Kelly, said “we all need a bit of time when things seem overwhelming”.
He added: “Sitting down to gather your thoughts or having a chat with someone about your worries or concerns can make a huge difference.
“These benches have been placed in our green open spaces so people can take a moment surrounded by nature.
“Looking out for your mental health and wellbeing is vital for everyone.
“Breathing Space is a free service providing vital out-ofhours support to people across Scotland who are feeling low, stressed or anxious and I would encourage anyone who may need support to reach out for help.”
Tony McLaren from Breathing Space said: “It’s inspiring to see how many organisations are committed to supporting people to stay mentally healthy through taking time to listen and share.
“They are doing a tremendous job in taking forward this mental wellbeing agenda, offering a place to connect and reflect, and showing we shouldn’t be afraid to talk about how we are feeling.”
Anyone struggling who needs a listening ear beyond the benches can contact Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87.
More information about the charity can be found online.