In a society where people seem to increasingly talk to one other via a smart phone, the art of conversation is being brought back to Chester thanks to a new ‘talking bench.’
The new Hoole Way sunken garden has recently been turned into a community area, following the installation of ‘eco trees’.
New benches have been included to allow people to have a break, enjoy the garden and watch the world go by.
In addition, Cheshire West and Chester Council’s localities team brought the idea of a ‘talking bench’ to life.
It’s aim is to encourage passers-by to stop and say hello to each other.
Chester resident Linda Jones joined a local community group called ‘Chatter Chairs’ several months ago, where she has been able to socialise and make new friends.
Linda said: “The talking bench is a great idea as I know there are so many people out there who feel lonely and may not have family living nearby.
“It’s a way to look out for your neighbours and brings communities together.”
Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, Cllr Louise Gittins said: “The sign by the bench says it all; small talk can make a big difference.
“This area in the sunken garden is for anybody who fancies a chat.”
Cllr Gittins added: “Not everyone is confident to start a conversation with someone they don’t know; our new bench is the ice-breaker.
Research by the British Red Cross and Co-Op in 2016 found that over nine million people in the UK, almost a fifth of the population, sayid they are always or often lonely – but almost two thirds feel uncomfortable admitting it.
Age UK say 3.6 million older people in the UK live alone, of whom over 2 million are aged 75+ and that loneliness can be as harmful for our health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
Cheshire West and Chester Council is working with partners to create ‘Age-friendly Cheshire West’ to help reduce loneliness and bring people of all ages together.
The aim is to make Cheshire West and Chester a great place to live and grow older.
You can find out more about Age-friendly Cheshire West and people of all ages can get involved in key projects and activities by visiting: www.agefriendlycheshirewest.org.
There are many community groups taking place across the borough that you can get involved in. To find out more, please visit: www.livewell.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.
