The Chatty Bench
Coming soonNew Chatty Bench to be Installed at Wey Valley Academy in Memory of Riley Ellis. A new Chatty Bench will be installed at Wey Valley Academy in memory of Riley Ellis as a lasting tribute that encourages conversation, connection and positive mental health. The initiative has been created by Dorset Mind, in partnership with Wey Valley Academy and Two Little Birds Dorset – The Riley and Trey Foundation, to encourage people to talk openly and remind them that support is always available. More than just a place to sit, the Chatty Bench is an invitation to start a conversation. Sometimes, a simple chat can make all the difference and be the first step towards getting help. This installation is the first of many planned by Two Little Birds Dorset – The Riley and Trey Foundation and Dorset Mind, with the aim of placing Chatty Benches in schools across Weymouth, Portland and Dorchester before expanding into community spaces. Discussions have already begun with The Thomas Hardye School about installing another bench in memory of Trey Rodd. Together, the partners hope the Chatty Bench will inspire more conversations, reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, and remind everyone that no one has to face life's challenges alone.