Monmouthshire Building Society recently sponsored the installation of a ‘Happy to Chat’ bench in Brecon with the support of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal Trust and Brecon Mind.

The Society celebrated the opening of its 10th branch in Brecon in January 2021, and they wanted to mark the occasion by giving something of value to the local community.

Branch Manager Zoe Mathias said: “I am extremely proud that the Society has been able to donate Brecon’s first ‘Happy to Chat’ bench which we hope will support people in the town.

“Having a place to sit and connect with nature is a great way to promote positive mental health and well-being, and if you can chat with someone else all the better.”

The bench was inspired by Ricky Gervais’ hit Netflix series Afterlife, and the subsequent installation of 25 benches across the UK in association with CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably). Each bench was inscribed with the words, “Hope is Everything”.

Zoe continued: “Over the past two years, people have relied on open spaces to maintain good mental health and well-being through exercise and meeting others. Loneliness and isolation are a huge problem facing society today and this was highlighted during the pandemic.

“I was inspired by the Netflix and CALM campaign to do something similar in Brecon and give people the space to connect. As a Mental Health First Aider and volunteer with Mind, I’m very passionate about being an advocate for mental health awareness. If you’re having a bad day, just having a chat with someone can make all the difference.”

Through conversations with Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal Trust and Brecon Mind, the decision was made to install the bench at side of the canal in Brecon, overlooking the theatre.

Mark Prosser from Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal Trust said: “This is a brilliant spot. Our research showed that being near water can trigger a flood of chemicals in our brains that promote wellness, increase our blood flow, and induce a relaxed state.

“We know the canal can be a place where people can come and find peace. I think having a place to sit and connect with others will greatly enhance their experience.”

Clare Searle of Brecon Mind added: “It’s been a pleasure to work with Zoe and Mark on this project. Zoe is such a passionate supporter of our work and I am delighted that Monmouthshire Building Society have been able to sponsor this initiative. I have no doubt this is a positive addition to our community.”