Campaign to tackle loneliness backed by popular comedian to return to borough

A NUMBER of benches will be given a new purpose next month, as a campaign aimed to tackle loneliness backed by a popular comedian makes it return to the borough.
The 'Say Hello' benches were inspired by the work of comedian John Bishop, who launched the Say Hello campaign in 2021 as part of the Month of Community initiative.
The campaign aims to combat loneliness, strengthen communities, and encourage people to just say hello to each other.
People are welcome to simply drop by for a chat, get advice, or take part in activities such as chess, gardening and walking tennis.
Bishop, comedian and founder of the Say Hello initiative, said: 'It's brilliant to see that Dudley Council is once again encouraging people to say hello to each other with their friendly bench initiative.
'Making that first connection with someone can lead to amazing things, from new friendships and shared ideas to people helping out neighbours who might need it.
'Thanks to Dudley's friendly benches, saying hello is easier than ever - I'm sure this fantastic project will inspire the whole community to have a seat, enjoy a natter and get to know someone new!'
The 13 benches across the borough part of the initiative will be located at:
Abbey Street Park, Gornal
Market Place, Dudley
Dudley Street, Sedgley
Foster Street, Stourbridge
Gornal Library, Gornal
Grange Park, Dudley
Hagley Street, Halesowen
High Street, Brierley Hill
Long Lane Library, Halesowen
Silver Jubilee Park, Coseley
Stevens Park, Quarry Bank
The Dell Stadium, Brierley Hill
Vicar Street Gardens, Sedgley
From Monday 9 June to Sunday 15 June, these benches will be adopted and decorated by local community groups to raise awareness of loneliness.
Councillor Andrea Goddard, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health at Dudley Council, said: 'We've been part of the Say Hello campaign for the past four years, helping to connect people across the borough and raising awareness of the mental and physical health impacts of loneliness.
'People of all ages can feel lonely, and these benches are here to help them connect.
"We're extremely grateful to the community groups for getting involved, adopting the benches, and giving people the opportunity to see a friendly face.'

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