DUNBAR Railway Station has become the fourth of its kind to be the site of a bench encouraging people to pause, reflect and find comfort.
Breathing Space has been working in partnership with Samaritans and Scotland’s Railways to install a bench at the station, which connects the county with Edinburgh and south of the border.
Breathing Space benches are dotted strategically throughout Scotland, typically in parks and green areas, but are now also being installed in busier urban spaces.
Today (Friday), the bench was unveiled at Dunbar’s railway station – following in the tracks of Dalmuir Station in West Dunbartonshire, Edinburgh Waverley and Glasgow Central.
Maree Todd MSP, Mental Wellbeing Minister, said: “I welcome the partnership approach being taken by Breathing Space, Samaritans and Scotland’s Railways in installing this bench.
“I hope that, over the coming years, many people will find it a useful place to gather their thoughts and take time to reflect.
“I would urge anyone who is experiencing low mood, anxiety or distress in their lives to get in touch with Breathing Space or to look at the range of helpful advice on the Breathing Space and Mind to Mind websites.”
Managed by NHS 24, Breathing Space is a free and confidential phone service for anyone in Scotland over the age of 16 experiencing low mood, depression, or anxiety.
Tony McLaren, Breathing Space national co-ordinator, explained why the benches were important symbols to prioritise mental health and said: “We’re proud to work alongside other mental health champions such as Samaritans and Scotland’s Railway to promote mental well-being within communities throughout Scotland.
“The installation of our newest Breathing Space Bench at Dunbar Train Station will serve as a powerful reminder to everyone that taking time to think, reflect, and chat about mental health is essential, especially during life’s busy moments.”
Dunbar Rotary has also been involved in the project and ensuring the railway station looks its best.
Alison Elliott, from the group, said: “The station volunteers are delighted to partner with Scotland's Railway, NHS 24 Breathing Space and Samaritans to help raise mental health awareness.
“The Breathing Space bench, being placed within the station garden, encourages discussion around mental wellbeing and helps promote the benefit of being outside in nature, gardening and companionship.
“We are keen to reach out to the wider community and encourage people to join our garden group, therefore the bench`s presence will help start the conversation and lead with engagement within the wider community.”
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