Albany's first 'Happy to Chat' bench
The idea for 'Happy to Chat' benches arose from the recent City of Albany Compassionate City Charter workshops. The aim is to brand a number of seats around Albany to encourage people to stop and say hello to each other. They will provide a safe and convenient place for those feeling lonely to sit and let others know they welcome a chat from a passer-by.
City of Albany's Executive Director Community Services Susan Kay said the initiative is one way community can help combat a loneliness epidemic affecting one-in-four Australians.
"Social isolation is an issue we can all help to fight by making sure we are inclusive, encouraging positive conversations and showing our compassion as a community," Ms Kay said.
The Department of Transport has nominated one of the benches on the foreshore opposite the boat pens near the Albany Entertainment Centre as a 'Happy to Chat' bench, and it has a plaque identifying its purpose.
WA Primary Health Alliance Regional Manager Lesley Pearson said the first 'Happy to Chat' bench showed how easy but important it is to create a safe and inviting place for people to talk, whether it's simply passing the time of day or a deeper conversation.
"This exemplifies the spirit of the Compassionate Communities project and the commitment from the Department of Transport as landowner to support the wellbeing of the local community and provide their bench for this initiative", she said.
The City of Albany is seeking suitable locations for more 'Happy to Chat' benches across Albany as part of its Compassionate Communities project that is being delivered in partnership with the WA Primary Health Alliance.
