The reflection benches, which HELP are donating to multiple defence sites across the UK are inspired by the Netflix series After Life. In the programme, Ricky Gervais character ‘Tony’ often visits the graveyard where his wife is laid to rest following her death from cancer. Tony sits on a bench to reflect; while talking to his wife, he openly contemplates the value of his life. At the graveyard he meets ‘Anne’ who also sits on an adjacent bench visiting her late husband. Despite having nothing in common other than the powerful bond of shared grief, Tony and Anne talk openly about mental health and learn to trust and support each other.
The reflection benches are not a memorial bench, but a visual reminder to acknowledge the importance of mental health and a place to take time out from our busy days. They are intended to support us in becoming aware of other people and to have the confidence to start a conversation. Additionally, they are somewhere where you can gain information and get support for yourselves and other people in a discreet way through the QR codes which are embedded in the benches.
People matter when it comes to mental health. The benches serve as a daily reminder of the importance of self-care.
HELP have received feedback on how reflection benches have impacted people’s lives in a positive way.
Bench locations
- BRNC Dartmouth
- Abbeywood, Bristol
- NCHQ , Portsmouth
- HMNB Clyde, Helensburgh
- BAES , Barrow x2
- HMNB , Devonport, Plymouth
- HMS Drake, Plymouth
- HMS Sultan , Gosport
- Royals Royce, Derby
- RMTC, Lympstone
- MASH, Bridlington
- HMS Collingwood, Fareham
- HMS Raleigh, Torpoint
The plan is to extend this HELP initiative and place benches in all military establishments, Shipyards and industry partners across the UK.
