Buncrana Children’s Charity launches new ‘Buddy Bench’ initiative across Inishowen
“Buncrana Tidy Towns is delighted to support this fantastic initiative by donating the first Buddy Bench. It is a simple idea with a very important message behind it”
Buncrana Children’s Charity is delighted to announce the launch of its new ‘Buddy Bench’ initiative, the first project of its kind across Inishowen.
The first buddy bench was installed in Buncrana play park. The initiative aims to promote kindness, friendship, inclusion, and positive mental well-being for children throughout local communities.
The Buddy Bench is a specially designated seat placed within playgrounds and public spaces where children can sit if they are feeling lonely, left out, upset, or simply looking for someone to talk to or play with.
The idea behind the bench is simple but powerful, encouraging children to look out for one another, include others in games and activities, and create a more supportive and welcoming environment for all young people.
Over the coming months, Buncrana Children’s Charity hopes to work alongside local communities and the Council to introduce additional Buddy Benches into other play parks and community areas throughout Inishowen.
The charity expressed its sincere thanks to Buncrana Tidy Towns for its support in helping launch the initiative, by kindly donating the first bench to help get the project up and running.
Buncrana’s Children's Charity would like to thank the Donegal County Council staff who assisted with this and will be assisting over the coming months.
Adrian McMyler, Chairperson of Buncrana Children’s Charity, explained: “We are incredibly proud to launch the Buddy Bench initiative here in Inishowen. Sometimes the smallest gestures can make the biggest difference to a child.”
“We hope this initiative encourages children to look out for one another and reminds young people that they are never alone. We are very excited to expand the project across communities throughout Inishowen over the coming months.”
Sharon McLaughlin, BCC Development Officer, said: “This initiative is all about creating positive and supportive spaces for children. The Buddy Bench encourages communication, friendship, and community spirit from a very young age. We are so grateful to everyone who has supported the project so far, especially Buncrana Tidy Towns, whose generosity helped us bring this idea to life.”
Gerard Porter, of Buncrana Tidy Towns, added: “Buncrana Tidy Towns is delighted to support this fantastic initiative by donating the first Buddy Bench. It is a simple idea with a very important message behind it. Encouraging kindness and inclusion within our community is something we are proud to support, and we look forward to seeing the initiative grow across Inishowen.”