Mid and East Antrim expands ‘Chatty Bench’ network as loneliness concerns grow

At the launch of the new Chatty Bench at Devenagh Way, Ballymena: Mid & East Antrim Mayor Jackson Minford; Councillor Brian Thompson; Roy McClean, Housing Executive; Marjorie Hawkins, Chair of the Loneliness Network; Councillor Bréanainn Lyness; with some local residents.

Two new ‘Chatty Benches’ have been installed in Ballymena as part of an ongoing effort to tackle loneliness and social isolation across Mid and East Antrim.

The latest benches — located at The Rectory Estate / Devenagh Way and Ballee Way — are designed to encourage spontaneous conversation between residents and create welcoming community spaces where people can stop, sit, and connect with others.

The initiative comes as community groups and public bodies continue to highlight rising levels of loneliness affecting people of all ages across Northern Ireland, particularly in local neighbourhoods where isolation can quietly impact mental wellbeing and everyday life.

New benches added in Ballymena

The new additions have been installed on land owned by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and form part of the wider Mid and East Antrim Loneliness Network project.

The benches are made from recycled materials and feature plaques with QR codes linking residents directly to information about support available through the Loneliness Network.

Anyone using the benches is encouraged to strike up a conversation with others nearby — a simple idea organisers say can have a meaningful impact for people who may otherwise feel disconnected or alone.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said the project was helping create stronger community connections across the Borough.

He said:

“The ‘Chatty Benches’ project is one of several initiatives focused on helping reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation by encouraging community engagement.

“The idea is simple - anyone wishing to strike up a conversation can take a seat and chat with others. Each bench also features a plaque with a unique QR code, allowing residents to access information about the Loneliness Network.

“I’m delighted to see two additional benches installed within the Borough and hope they help make a positive difference to people’s day.”

Loneliness and isolation remain growing concerns

At the launch of the new Chatty Bench at Ballee Way, Ballymena: Mid & East Antrim Mayor Jackson Minford; Roy McClean, Housing Executive; Councillor Alan Barr; Marjorie Hawkins, Chair of the Loneliness Network; and local residents Macy Lee and Kirsty.

Representatives involved in the project said the benches are intended to break down social barriers and encourage everyday interaction between neighbours and passers-by.

Roy McClean from the Northern Ireland Housing Executive said loneliness and isolation had become increasingly common in recent years.

He said:

“In recent years, increasing numbers of local people have experienced loneliness and isolation. Chatty Benches offer a simple but effective way to break down social barriers by encouraging people to say hello and connect with one another.”

The Mid and East Antrim Loneliness Network says the latest installations bring the total number of Chatty Benches across the Borough to 28.

Chairperson Marjorie Hawkins said the wider aim was to improve mental wellbeing while helping residents feel more connected within their local communities.

She said:

“Chatty Benches are intended to help address loneliness and promote positive mental wellbeing throughout the community. We now have 28 Chatty Benches located across the Borough.

“We hope these two new benches will become welcoming places where people can meet, talk, and feel connected.”

Part of wider efforts to strengthen communities

The expansion of the Chatty Bench network reflects growing recognition of the role public spaces can play in improving mental wellbeing and reducing isolation, particularly for older residents, people living alone, and those struggling with confidence or social connection.

With two more benches now added in Ballymena, organisers hope the simple invitation to sit down and start a conversation will continue helping people feel less isolated and more connected within their own communities.