New mental health benches at Wellington school and church

The new benches at St John's Church of England Primary School and St John the Baptist Church were made possible by a donation from Tony Tilley. 

Three benches - which each contain a unique message - have been placed in the school's playgrounds and sensory garden. 

One of the benches can be found in the grounds of St John's Church. 

Church warden Christine Winhall received the bench on the church’s behalf and placed in the front grounds with the school in view.

School staff member Jenna Cook took inspiration from benches donated to towns to promote mental health discussions and thought they could be beneficial locally. 

Church warden Christine Winhall on the new bench at St John the Baptist Church.

She said: “We have all been through so many challenges, over the last few years in particular, and have realised the importance of looking after our mental health.

“One of the best ways to do this is through talking and so I wanted to make sure the children and staff of school had somewhere to sit and give them the space to do this.

“Our school ethos is sharing joy and hope within our community and so naturally we wanted St John’s Church to also receive a new bench so that our community can also have an opportunity to sit and talk.”

The benches are made of recycled plastic and each have their own message on a plaque.

The benches are made from recycled plastic and will be enjoyed by staff members, pupils, and members of the community for many years to come.