Our Action

New Chatty Bench Installed at Wey Valley Academy in Memory of Riley Ellis. A new Chatty Bench has been 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.

A mental health awareness poster campaign rolling out across secondary schools and colleges in Weymouth, Portland and Dorchester. The posters are a clear, visible reminder that help is available and that no young person has to face difficult thoughts alone - placed where students actually are, from notice boards and tutor rooms to the back of toilet doors where there's a moment of privacy. Each one carries a QR code that links straight to trusted local support services, so help is only a quick, discreet scan away. We're aiming to launch across every local school and college at the same time, for one strong, united message of support.

We're raising funds and working with schools to bring Tom Talks to every secondary school and college in Weymouth, Portland and Dorchester. Drawing on his own lived experience, Tom delivers powerful, relatable talks that open honest conversations about anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts, break down the stigma around mental health, and help young people recognise when a friend is struggling and feel able to speak up and ask for help. We work closely with each school's pastoral and safeguarding teams, so the right support is on hand for anyone who needs it afterwards.