THE Lanes in Carlisle have announced that their ‘Happy to Chat’ bench is staying ‘exactly where it is’.
Carlisle Eden Mind and the shopping centre partnered this May to raise awareness of mental health.
They set up a bench, next to the pop-up shop, opposite Muffin Break, to encourage people to talk about their feelings.
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Throughout Mental Health Awareness Week (Monday, May 12 to Sunday, May 18) members from the Mind team were on hand to offer advice to people who sat down.
Carlisle Eden Mind’s stall in The Lanes. (Image: Carlisle Eden Mind) The Lanes said the bench has ‘proved popular and had people talking’ and have now decided to keep it in place. They say it will periodically move to various locations to maximize its reach.
Training was also recently delivered to the security staff from The Lanes by Carlisle Eden Mind to help support wellbeing for themselves and visitors to the lanes shopping centre.
Michael Boaden, CEO of Carlisle Eden Mind said: “We are absolutely thrilled with the positive impact the ‘Time to Chat’ bench has had already.
“From the moment it was introduced, we’ve witnessed heartwarming interactions and genuine connections forming. This simple concept beautifully illustrates how a small conversation can make a huge difference in someone’s day, and ultimately, contribute to a more supportive and connected community. It’s a tangible step towards reducing isolation and promoting mental well-being for everyone in Carlisle.”
Nicola Green, marketing manager at The Lanes added: “The Lanes is more than just a shopping centre; it’s a community hub. We are incredibly proud to partner with Carlisle Eden Mind on the ‘Happy to Chat’ bench, providing a dedicated space where people feel comfortable to pause, engage, and connect.
“The early feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and we are excited to see the continued benefits this initiative brings to our visitors and the wider Carlisle community as the bench moves around.”