Weymouth, Dorset – A simple cup of tea and a friendly chat can make a world of difference, and now Dorset Tea and Dorset Mind are bringing that message to life with the launch of Weymouth’s very first Chatty Bench, a vibrant new community feature designed to encourage conversation and connection.
Officially unveiled on Tuesday, 25th November, the Chatty Bench sits proudly on the hillside near the Lookout Café at Bowleaze Cove, offering locals and visitors an inviting place to pause, talk, and reflect. More than just a bench, it is a gentle reminder of the importance of human connection in supporting mental well-being.
Hand-painted by local artist Helena Chessher, the bench radiates warmth with its bright colours and uplifting design, symbolising hope, positivity, and togetherness. Its joyful presence aims to spark spontaneous conversations — perhaps even over a comforting cuppa.
The project marks another milestone in the ongoing partnership between Dorset Mind and Dorset Tea, who earlier this year donated £5,000 to support the charity’s essential mental health services across the county. From fundraising to community wellbeing initiatives, the two organisations continue to collaborate with the shared goal of nurturing supportive and connected communities.
Lauren Forecast, Brand Manager at Dorset Tea, highlighted the heart behind the initiative:
“There’s something special about sharing a cuppa — it brings comfort and connection. With the Chatty Bench, we hope to make it even easier for people to start those all-important conversations about mental health, one cup of tea at a time.”
The Chatty Bench is part of Dorset Mind’s broader mission to normalise mental health conversations and make support approachable. It also helps raise awareness for key programmes such as the Waiting Well Project and Connected Minds Programme, both of which play a crucial role in supporting young people’s mental health across Dorset.
Nick Rowe, Corporate and Major Donor Fundraiser at Dorset Mind, emphasised the bench’s deeper purpose:
“We believe that talking is the first step towards better mental health. This bench, supported by Dorset Tea, gives people a place to connect — with kindness, understanding, and, of course, a comforting cuppa.”
Weymouth Town Council has warmly welcomed the initiative.
Councillor Paul Bird commented:
“We’re thrilled to welcome Weymouth’s first Chatty Bench. It’s a simple yet powerful reminder of how meaningful connection can be. We hope everyone, residents and visitors alike, will take a moment to sit, chat, and connect.”
Dorset Mind additionally extended heartfelt thanks to David R. White Builders, whose generous support in supplying and installing the bench helped turn the vision into a colourful reality.
The Weymouth bench is just the beginning. More Chatty Benches are planned for locations across Dorset as part of a wider wellbeing initiative aimed at spreading positivity, community spirit, and encouraging open conversations throughout the county.
To learn more about the Chatty Bench campaign or discover how you can get involved, visit dorsetmind.uk.
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