A mother from North Northamptonshire has successfully raised £1,265 to install a mental health bench along the Embankment in Wellingborough, symbolizing that individuals are "not alone" in their struggles. Anne-Marie's initiative follows the tragic suicide of her ex-partner, the father of her two sons, in 2024. In honor of his memory, she founded The Seddon Legacy Project, a community group aimed at improving access to support for families affected by bereavement.
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The newly installed bench includes features designed to assist individuals seeking help, such as a light for visibility and QR codes linking to emotional support services available 24/7. Collaborating with organizations such as North Northamptonshire Council, Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SoBS), and Kelly's Heroes, the bench was supplied by Legend on the Bench, a suicide prevention charity.
At the unveiling, Anne-Marie expressed her pride and gratitude, stating it was an "emotional morning" and highlighting the support received from the local council and community groups. "This is going to be my legacy," she remarked, emphasizing the bench as a space for reflection and dialogue about mental health.
Anne-Marie wishes to encourage other families facing similar challenges, underscoring that they are not alone and that there are services willing to listen. Brian Benneyworth, a Reform UK councillor, voiced hope that the bench could serve as a pause point for individuals to remember loved ones or to find solace in knowing they are not alone.
In September, the council approved a new Suicide Prevention Strategy, reaffirming its commitment to enhancing mental wellbeing and preventing suicide among residents. For anyone affected by the issues discussed, support can be accessed through the BBC Action Line.