City of Lincoln Council is proud to support the installation of a Suicide Prevention Bench, an inspiring and vital initiative led by the not-for-profit charity Legend on the Bench.
The unveiling ceremony will take place on Saturday, 23rd November, at 10:30am, at Jarvis House, Ashby Avenue, LN6 0DY.
The bench will be unveiled by the charity’s founder and former footballer Micky Hazard, alongside Cllr Biff Bean, the ward councillor for Hartsholme for City of Lincoln Council, Ben Schofield, chair of the Lincoln United FC fan group 1938 United, and members of the Lincoln City Former Players Association.
With Lincoln reporting one of the highest suicide rates in England, 20.1 per 100,000 between 2021 and 2023, compared the national average of 10.7 per 100,000 people during the same period, this bench represents a critical step in supporting mental health and suicide prevention efforts within the community.
Recognising its importance, City of Lincoln Council has gladly donated a piece of its land and arranged for the base of the bench to be built on this land, with installation generously supported by Lincs Civil Engineering. The bench has been kindly donated by the charity.
Legend on the Bench was established by Micky Hazard and his sister Michelle after the tragic loss of Michelle’s son to suicide, driven by mental health challenges. Their mission is to place these benches in all parks across the UK, serving as beacons of hope and practical support for those in crisis.
Each bench is designed with contact numbers and QR codes, providing direct access to mental health resources on the Legend on the Bench help page, and integral lighting, offering a comforting glow at night, symbolising a ray of hope in dark times.
Cllr Biff Bean, who worked closely with Micky Hazard to facilitate this project, said:
"We are deeply honoured to support this initiative. The Suicide Prevention Bench is more than just a bench, it’s a lifeline, a beacon of support, and a powerful reminder that no one is alone."
Cllr Donald Nannestad, Portfolio Holder for Quality Housing at City of Lincoln Council, said:
“We are extremely pleased to be involved in this initiative by assisting in the construction of the bench’s base and donating the land on which it will be placed.
“Suicide and mental health challenges are pressing issues that claim countless lives unnecessarily. If this Suicide Prevention Bench can save even one life or help someone struggling to seek help, then it will be worth its weight in gold.”
The Legend on the Bench charity team will attend the unveiling, offering advice and sharing their ambitious vision of bringing these benches to every local park and open space in the UK.
City of Lincoln Council is proud to stand with this initiative, reaffirming its commitment to fostering mental health awareness and reducing suicide rates in Lincoln and beyond.
We invite the community to join us at this significant event, show their support, and learn more about the resources available to help those in need.