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New ‘Chatty Benches’ Bring People Together for Loneliness Awareness Week  

Voluntary Support North Surrey (VSNS) is marking Loneliness Awareness Week [15 – 21 June] with the official launch of two new ‘chatty benches’, designed to encourage people to sit, connect and chat with others in their local community. 

 The benches are connected to VSNS’s befriending scheme, Time to Talk, which supports isolated and lonely people in North West Surrey. The chatty bench concept is based on a growing national movement to create welcoming public spaces where strangers feel comfortable striking up a conversation, helping to reduce the isolation that affects millions of people across the UK. 

Both benches were built by volunteers at local Men’s Sheds groups. The Camberley bench was built by volunteers at Camberley & District Men’s Shed, using high-quality hardwood donated by Travis Perkins, Woking. Terry, the volunteer member who built the bench, said: “It’s a pleasure to build something worthwhile and for a good cause. Using good quality, hard-wearing wood made the whole thing even better.” 

The project came together thanks to the connections of Tom, a volunteer member at the Men’s Shed and trustee of Camberley Bowling Club, who saw an opportunity to site one of the benches at the club’s bowling green. It now takes pride of place alongside the other benches around the green, a spot where people already come to sit, watch the bowls, chat and enjoy lunch together. 

The second bench was crafted by volunteers at Men’s Shed Chertsey, with Rob Marshall leading on the project, using wood donated by PTL Sunbury. It has found a beautiful home in the wildlife garden at Chertsey Library, a peaceful, welcoming spot. The library team will be responsible for the ongoing maintenance of the bench. 

Phil Woodland, Trustee at Camberley & District Men’s Shed, played a key role in liaising on the project and will oversee the ongoing upkeep and maintenance of the bench on behalf of the club. 

Elaine, Time to Talk Befriending Manager at Voluntary Support North Surrey, said: “Loneliness Awareness Week shines a spotlight on the issue of loneliness and encourages people to take small but meaningful steps to connect with one another. We hope the benches will serve as a visible reminder that a simple conversation can make a real difference to someone’s day. 

“Research shows that loneliness can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, heart disease, and dementia. Our Time to Talk befriending service addresses this through regular social interaction, playing a crucial role in improving people’s quality of life. Time to Talk ensures that no one in North West Surrey has to face loneliness alone.”