'Let's Chat' benches installed in Derbyshire

A new initiative is aiming to get people talking about their mental health. The special benches are being installed, with the aim to tackle feelings of isolation and to help people connect.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic there have been increases in the risk factors which contribute to emotional distress, such as social isolation and worries over employment and finances.

The county council's public health team are working with local councils, community groups and Derbyshire businesses as part of the Let’s Chat Derbyshire campaign.

Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Communities, Councillor Carol Hart said:

“Loneliness and isolation can have a big impact on the way we feel, and the pandemic has meant that many more people have felt alone.

“Talking about how we’re feeling can go a long way to helping reduce the feelings of isolation.

"We hope our Let’s Chat benches will offer people a safe space to open up and start conversations.”

The Let’s Chat bench signs have QR codes which take you to webpages with information about tackling isolation, loneliness and mental health support.

There will be around 700 signs across Derbyshire on benches in parks, town centres and community venues.

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• derbyshire county council