Louth councillor calls for ‘chatty benches’ in Drogheda to reduce loneliness

By Olivia Ryan, The Drogheda Independent

Fancy a seat on a ‘chatty bench?’ A new initiative aimed at combatting loneliness could be on the way to Drogheda, following calls from a local councillor.

Currently being piloted in Fingal, the benches feature special signage to let people know they can sit and have a chat with strangers if they are feeling lonely.

Now, a Drogheda councillor has called on Louth County Council to introduce the initiative to the town’s public spaces.

Cllr. Declan Power asked the local authority to support the introduction of a ‘Chatty Bench’ initiative, which aims to “reduce loneliness, foster community connection, and promote mental wellbeing.”

In a motion submitted to the November meeting of Drogheda Borough District, Cllr. Power said: “These benches will be clearly marked with inviting signage, encouraging residents, visitors and the elderly to sit and engage in friendly conversation.”

He added that the initiative could be piloted in Drogheda’s high-footfall areas, such as parks and riversides.

The chatty benches could help to tackle social isolation, said Cllr. Power in a “low-cost, high impact way.”

The scheme would also align with national wellbeing strategies and age-friendly goals, and would offer “a visible and inclusive solution for dealing with loneliness.”

David Hanratty, Director of Service at Louth County Council said they would “consider the experience of Fingal in relation to this and consider whether there are suitable locations in Drogheda for the piloting of such a facility, subject to funding and a suitable shared space being found.”