Oliver Chan initiated the 'happy to talk' bench project to address loneliness exacerbated by the pandemic, especially as pubs and meeting venues faced closures. Located in various areas of Camden, these benches serve as social prompts with signs inviting conversation. However, Chan notes that many individuals still seem unaware of their purpose. His mother suggests enhancements to make the benches more visually appealing and obvious as conversation spaces, emphasizing the necessity for greater awareness and community engagement to combat loneliness effectively.
My main concern and why I started this is because lockdown happened I had a big fear of places closing down, especially pubs, galleries, shops and restaurants - and that can create loneliness more.
The council are missing out on a great opportunity. The bench has to be looking like it's for a chat. Just a bench sitting on its own with a little plastic notice isn't enough.
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