We are working on a new pilot project to help tackle loneliness around our City! We know what an inclusive, compassionate and positive community we have right here in PAE, and we are creating more spaces for people to stop, connect and share.
There are Happy to Chat benches all over the world, and the concept is very simple. Each bench has a welcoming sign on it that reads: ‘Happy to Chat: Sit Here If You Don’t Mind Someone Stopping to Say Hello’. We hope the signs help break down the invisible social barriers that sometimes exist between people who are sharing the common space of a bench. Making the effort to stop and say ‘hello’ to someone could make a positive difference for both of you.
The benches provide a space for people to support one another and find genuine connection, boosting the level of healthy conversation that happens in our community. Everyone has a story to tell and taking just ten minutes to share with someone, might just be the highlight of their day.
During the pilot project, you will find benches at:
- The Port Adelaide Plaza (opposite Kmart)
- Port Adelaide Library
You can visit the benches whenever you like or come and take a seat on Mondays and Wednesdays, when our Community Connector volunteer chatters, Lauren, Tammie and Sharon, will be available to chat to whoever is sitting there. ‘I think it is a wonderful way to reconnect people in a safe and supportive environment’, says Sharon. One thing is for sure, having a conversation with someone is a great way to break down the invisible social barriers that can exist between people and reduce isolation in our community — so let’s sit down and get talking.