Dumfries and Galloway Mental Health Association (DGMHA) were delighted to donate a covered bench and two planters to Include Us who run Catherine Street Inclusive Park in Dumfries.
An opening ceremony to cut the bench ribbon took place at Catherine Street Inclusive Park on Thursday 21st April at 2.30 pm.
The bench is intended to provide a place to talk, listen or just be, for anyone needing time to reflect or connect with others.
Phyllis Wright, Chair of DGMHA Board said:
“In listening to our frontline staff, we recognised how important it is to support our frontline services staff and the people who are supported by us, particularly when faced with loss and grief.
We wanted to remember those are no longer with us, whether someone supported by us or a member of staff and support those who are still with us. The proposal of a memory bench in a local, safe and relaxing space accessible to staff and people who use our services was well received.
We have had a positive previous experience of working in partnership with Include Us, who donated plants to fill our planters and hanging baskets. The plants brightened our properties and lifted spirits. They were well received by everyone; either by admiring or helping plant and care for the flowers.
We collaborated with Andy and Lisa from Include Us who were delighted to house the bench while our staff and those who use our services chose the style of bench, the planters and sensory plants.
We are delighted that our memory bench is so accessible, not only for us, but all who use the park and look forward to future partnership opportunities between our organisations.
Andy Zieleniec, Chair of Include Us, welcomed the collaboration:
“We are very aware in the park of the importance of being able to access and use outdoor space for physical and mental health and wellbeing. The park welcomes everyone and is a small green space for everyone in the community to use regardless of age, ability or need. We hope that this covered bench will give people the opportunity to meet, reflect or enjoy the sights and sounds of the park and will be of benefit to many.”
