A new bench in the heart of Leigh is offering more than just a place to sit, serving as a lasting reminder that support is available to anyone struggling with their mental health.
The ‘Bench of Hope’ was officially unveiled in Leigh’s newly transformed Civic Square last week to mark World Suicide Prevention Day. The installation aims to encourage people to seek help when they need it and raise awareness of the support services available across the community.
Attached to the bench is a plaque featuring a QR code linking directly to the Hub of Hope, an online directory of local and national mental health and wellbeing services. The resource helps people quickly find support tailored to their needs.
The bench also pays tribute to Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS), a peer-led charity that provides support to people affected by suicide.
Among those attending the unveiling were Leigh residents Janet and Noel Taylor, the charity’s longest-serving volunteers.
The couple established the Bolton SOBS support group in 2001 following the tragic death of their son and have spent more than two decades helping others navigate grief and loss.
Janet, who also serves on the charity’s board of trustees, hopes the bench will encourage people to reach out for support.
She said: “We hope it will help people find the help they need.”
The Bench of Hope forms part of wider efforts across the borough to tackle the stigma that can still surround mental health and suicide, while promoting a greater understanding of the importance of seeking help early.
Its unveiling comes during the annual Month of Hope campaign, which shines a spotlight on suicide prevention, mental wellbeing and the role communities can play in supporting one another.
Organisers say the installation is intended as a visible reminder that nobody has to face difficult times alone and that support is available for anyone experiencing mental health challenges, as well as for those bereaved by suicide.
The bench now takes pride of place in Civic Square, where it is hoped residents will not only stop to rest, but also reflect on the message at its heart: that there is always hope, and always someone to turn to.
For support and information, visit the Hub of Hope via the QR code on the Bench of Hope or search online at hubofhope.co.uk. Anyone affected by suicide bereavement can also find support through SOBS (Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide).
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