First Hope Bench installed in Lancaster
The idea of raising funds to place Hope benches came about as part of a partnership group of which we are a member, Lancaster District Adult Mental Health Forum. It was part of a campaign for World Suicide Prevention Day on 10th September 2025.
We have been successful in raising enough for five benches which will be placed around the district this year. They will feature our logo and telephone number alongside information on Positive Futures and the CVS directory where help and support can be found around a number of issues.
The first Hope bench was installed on 15th May, near Carlisle Bridge in Lancaster. Lancaster Samaritans attended along with other partners to watch Cat Smith MP unveil it.
Lancaster MP Cat Smith unveiling the new Hope Bench
Hope Benches are part of a community‑led project developed by the Lancaster District Adult Mental Health Forum, designed to promote mental wellbeing and provide simple, visible signposting to local and national support services.
This first bench has been installed by Lancaster City Council. It was made by the Lancaster Men’s Hub, a local charity created to support men of all ages in the Lancaster area with their physical and mental health. The project has been funded through LifeFest 2025, supported by the George and Dragon pub. Many local organisations have also helped make this possible.