Mid and East Antrim welcomes eight new ‘Chatty Benches’ to foster community connections

The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Cllr Jackon Minford, Mid and East Antrim Loneliness Network Chair, Marjorie Hawkins and Kerry Fokkens, Carnfunnock Principal Parks Duty Officer, were joined by residents of Wovens Scotch Quarter apartments to launch the Chatty bench located in their courtyard. 

In a heartwarming initiative to combat loneliness and promote social interaction, Mid and East Antrim’s Loneliness Network has launched eight new ‘Chatty Benches’ across the borough.

These benches, repurposed from the ongoing redevelopment of Carnfunnock Country Park, aim to provide welcoming spaces for residents to sit, chat, and connect with others, helping to reduce feelings of isolation and support positive mental health.

The new benches are strategically placed in accessible locations across Mid and East Antrim to encourage spontaneous conversations among community members. The locations include:

•  Ferris Park, Larne

•  Galgorm, Ballymena

•  Larne Library

•  Mariners Court, Clanmill Housing, Carrickfergus

•  Coast Road, Ballygally

•  St Cedmas Church, Larne

•  Scotch Quarter, Woven Housing Association, Carrickfergus

•  Abbeyfield and Wesley supported living scheme, Greenisland

The ‘Chatty Benches’ initiative is part of a broader effort by the Mid and East Antrim Loneliness Network, established in late 2019, to address loneliness and social vulnerabilities across all age groups.

The network, a collaboration of community, voluntary, and statutory organisations, now oversees a total of 26 Chatty Benches throughout the borough, with these eight new additions further expanding their reach.

The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Cllr Jackon Minford and Mid and East Antrim Loneliness Network Chair, Marjorie Hawkins.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its role in fostering community spirit.

“The ‘Chatty Benches’ initiative is one of many that aims to engage people in activities to minimise their sense of isolation,” he said.

“The ethos behind it is to encourage anyone who wants to engage in conversation with someone to sit down on a bench and just have a chat. There is also a plaque on the bench with a unique QR code on it, which residents can scan to access information on the Loneliness Network.

“I am delighted to see eight more benches established in the Borough and hope they brighten up someone’s day.”

Each bench features a plaque with a QR code that directs users to resources and information provided by the Loneliness Network, making it easier for residents to access support and learn about local initiatives aimed at reducing social isolation.

Sabrina Lynn from the Northern Health and Social Care Trust emphasised the growing need for such initiatives.

“In recent years more local people are experiencing of loneliness and isolation,” she said. “Chatty Benches are a great way to break down that social barrier as they encourage us all to say hello and have a chat.”

The initiative has been designed with simplicity and inclusivity in mind, offering a low-pressure environment for people to connect. Whether it’s a brief chat with a stranger or a longer conversation with a neighbour, the benches serve as a catalyst for meaningful interactions that can make a significant difference to someone’s day.

Marjorie Hawkins, Chairperson of the Mid and East Antrim Loneliness Network, underscored the importance of the benches in promoting mental well-being.

“Chatty Benches are designed to help tackle loneliness and support positive mental health within the community,” she said. “We hope these 8 new ‘Chatty Benches’ will be seen as places for people to come together to chat and connect.”

The introduction of these benches comes at a time when loneliness is increasingly recognised as a public health concern, with studies showing its detrimental effects on both physical and mental health.

By providing designated spaces for conversation, the Loneliness Network is taking proactive steps to build stronger, more connected communities across Mid and East Antrim.

The benches, recycled from Carnfunnock Country Park, also reflect a commitment to sustainability, repurposing existing resources to serve a new purpose. This eco-friendly approach aligns with the broader goals of the Loneliness Network to create a positive impact on both the environment and the well-being of residents.

Residents are encouraged to visit the new Chatty Benches, strike up a conversation, and take advantage of the QR codes to learn more about the support available through the Loneliness Network.

As the initiative continues to grow, it serves as a reminder of the power of simple human connection in tackling loneliness and fostering a sense of belonging.