two 'legend on the bench' suicide prevention benches unveiled in harpenden

“Legend on the Bench” benches, installed at Batford Green and the Town Centre’s fountain area, were unveiled on Thursday 22nd October. The benches are part of a national campaign to support those who would benefit from mental health support or who may have suicidal feelings. The benches were purchased by charitable trust The Amateurs Trust with the support of Harpenden Town Council, and will provide a place to sit, a visual display of community awareness of suicide prevention and support for someone at their lowest moment. Each bench displays contact numbers and QR codes linking directly to crisis support services.

Mrs Pam Brown, who was born and raised in Harpenden, representing charitable trust The Amateurs Trust which purchased the benches explained “We are keen to support mental health charities and do this in various ways as it is such an important issue. When I read about Legend on the Bench and their contribution to suicide prevention, I felt strongly that benches in Harpenden would be very worthwhile for our community. It is our hope that Legend on the Bench is a reminder to anyone who needs support that help is available.”

Legend on the Bench works with local communities to place benches across the UK and Ireland. Every bench starts with local people who want to support members of their community who may benefit. Each bench has built-in integral lighting which means that they are also a beam of hope even in the darkest hours, visible and accessible at all times.

Harpenden Town Mayor, Cllr Kirsti Wenn said “Thank you to Pam Brown and The Amateurs Trust for their work with Legend on the Bench. This is an exceptional charity and its work towards combating mental health issues and preventing suicides is so important. The Town Council is so pleased to be able to support this initiative with the addition of two benches in public areas.”

If you or someone you know would like to access support and talk to someone now, please call the Samaritans on 116 123. Samaritans is a free to call phone line, accessible 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Whatever you're going through, a Samaritan will face it with you.