Following the placement of two Talking Benches in Guernsey last year, a third has been placed in the heart of Town.
The Talking Benches are the brainchild of Aileen Morgan, Colette Quertier and Sarah Bamford, three local ladies who lost their sons to suicide. It is well known that when people talk to each other, life can be better. This is why the first and second Talking Benches were created in Petit Bot and St Martins.
The plan is for more of these benches to encourage people to talk, thereby improving lives. This could be a simple conversation about the weather to favourite music, or simply listening to a stranger who might want to talk.
The ‘Bench ladies’, as they are affectionately known, say that the first two ‘Talking benches’ are just the start of such benches across all parishes in the island. Painted in bright orange by the Bridge-based charity Go, to make them clearly visible, the benches all carry a plaque saying ‘Please talk’.
Sonia Taylor, Director of Bailiwick Estates, who is responsible for Market Square, said: The whole team at Bailiwick Estates is pleased to support such an emotive but valuable idea. The importance of talking to one another and the value of good communication cannot be underestimated.
“This is a great opportunity to support the community and highlight the matters of loneliness, depression and anxiety, and the importance of talking to each other throughout the year.”
St Peter Port Constable, Zoe Lihou, added: “There is no substitute for talking to people which is why I am delighted to support this initiative. I’d encourage residents and those working or socialising in Town to take a moment and make time for a chat and brighten someone’s day.”
Jim Coupe, Managing Director at Skipton International, whose community fund is kindly funding the latest bench said: “This is a great opportunity for Skipton to support the community and highlight the the importance of talking to each other throughout the year. It is our pleasure to support Aileen, Sarah and Collette in this uplifting initiative.”
The main picture shows Aileen, Sarah, Collette and Annette Wales, sat on the Talking bench.
