A new bench has been installed in a South Cumbria town centre to encourage friendly chats between strangers.
The Happy to Chat bench, at Kendal’s Birdcage, has been inspired by Manna House – a charity supporting people who are homeless or vulnerably housed – aims to foster connections and brighten people’s days.
Councillor Eamonn Hennessy, chair of Kendal Town Council’s environment committee, said: “The Happy to Chat benches are a small but valuable way to support mental health in the community.
“Kendal Town Council is proud to further the initiative within the town centre in collaboration with Manna House.”
The benches are marked with a special sign to signal that the occupant is open to conversation. By normalising casual chats between strangers, the benches aim to help break down social barriers and promote mental wellbeing.
Lucy Bennett, of Manna House, added: “Discussions at our Conversation Café’ and Client Forum highlighted the impact of loneliness.
“In today’s fast-paced world, opportunities for spontaneous social interaction can be limited. The bench offers a welcoming space for people to connect, share a moment, and brighten someone’s day in a key part of town.
“We are delighted that Kendal Town Council listened and quickly helped establish a Happy to Chat bench.”
Kendal mayor Richard Sutton also met with Manna House clients to hear about the experiences of people in the community who are without stable housing.
He said it was very insightful to learn how much the Birdcage area means to local residents.
