- Lyndsey
Building Community Resilience: How The Friendly Bench Sparks Positive Change and Employment Opportun
In a time where the sense of community has never been more important, The Friendly Bench is a shining example of how a simple concept can create a ripple effect, supporting communities far beyond its immediate location. The Friendly BenchⓇ, with their primary goal of encouraging social connections, sharing skills, promoting physical and mental well-being, and fostering a deep connection with nature, have proven to be a force for good in the communities that they are located. Not only do they bring people together, but they also generate funding and employment opportunities for local individuals, making a significant impact on society.
One notable success story that illustrates the positive influence of one of our The Friendly Bench is the collaboration with a local veteran in Chester. This veteran had been struggling with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and he saw outdoor exercise as a path to improving his mental health while offering support to others facing similar challenges. The individual's amazing journey took a transformative turn when he decided to become a fitness instructor, offering outdoor fitness classes in the beautiful setting of Chester, where Blue Light Card holders and fellow veterans could participate for free.
The Friendly Bench Chester group recognised the potential of this initiative and sought support from Sports England to fund the venture. They saw the opportunity to bring these fitness classes to The Friendly Bench at the Countess of Chester Country Park, offering a safe and accessible space for local veterans, healthcare workers, and the broader community. This proved to be a brilliant way of supporting veterans and medical staff who had been under immense pressure due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The results of this collaboration were nothing short of extraordinary. The fitness classes not only provided an outlet for physical exercise but also offered a much-needed boost to the veteran's self-esteem. Participants flocked to these classes, including those from the groups The Friendly Bench aimed to support, as well as members of the general public who were experiencing their own difficulties during these trying times. The success of this endeavour demonstrated how The Friendly Bench could serve as a hub for positive change and a catalyst for community well-being.
But the impact did not stop there. The grant from Sports England not only ensured the sustainability of these fitness classes but also created a job opportunity for the veteran instructor, who could continue supporting those in need.
The Friendly Bench exemplifies the power of community, connectivity, and the potential for positive change. It shows that, with the right vision and a supportive network, a small initiative can transform lives and uplift an entire community.
The success story of the veteran turned fitness instructor serves as a testament to the resilience and strength that can be found within our communities when given the right support and opportunities.
In times of hardship and uncertainty, The Friendly Bench stands as a beacon of hope, proving that with creativity, collaboration, and unwavering determination, we can build a brighter, more connected future for us all.