The first Breathing Space bench on a Scottish college campus has been unveiled at Dumfries and Galloway College.
The bench, designed to raise awareness of mental health issues and to provide a space for students and staff to relax, is the sixth to be installed across the country and the first to be installed at a college.
To mark the occasion, Tony McLaren from NHS 24’s Breathing Space service gave a talk, alongside his colleague Corinna Davies, which was enjoyed by students and staff, including Principal Joanna Campbell.
A poetry competition was also held to celebrate the occasion with Dumfries and Galloway student Amy Joanne Hoffman being among the winners alongside Nuby Thomas and Steph Phillips from the University of Glasgow.
Judging the competition were Equality and Diversity Officer, Sue Livermore, Student Association President, Nikki Vjaschslav, Librarian, Alison McAughtrie, and Quality Manager, Kate Glendye.
For the next few months the bench will be placed in the Kaleidoscope area of the library before being moved to its permanent home in the Crichton grounds.
Breathing Space is funded by the Scottish Government and provides free and confidential phone support to anyone in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression, or anxiety.
Principal Joanna Campbell said:
“Breathing Space is such a wonderful organisation, that does so much for those struggling with mental health issues across Scotland, and we at Dumfries and Galloway College are delighted to support them.
“This bench will provide our students, staff, and visitors with a place to relax and chat while they’re on campus.
“Dumfries and Galloway College is dedicated to working with our local community, including public sector stakeholders, to make a positive contribution to life in the South of Scotland.” Tony McLaren, National Coordinator of Breathing Space, said:
“We are pleased to be working closely with Dumfries and Galloway College to help promote good mental wellbeing both within the College and across the wider community.
“It’s not easy to open up and talk about problems and emotions.
“Our advisors at Breathing Space are available in the evenings and at the weekends on 0800 83 85 87 to listen and offer information and advice.”
