A bench has been set aside on Ealing Green to encourage residents to talk to each other – and to help you to feel ‘AOK’.  

Ealing Council is collaborating with Thrive LDN – the citywide movement to improve the mental health and wellbeing of all Londoners – to set up an Act of Kindness (AOK) bench for a three-week trial period.  

It will be on Ealing Green, opposite Pitzhanger Manor from 2pm tomorrow (Tuesday, 18 February).  

AOK benches are aimed at creating a space for people to go if they are interested in having a chat with anyone, about anything.  

Similar benches have been successful in other parts of the UK at tackling isolation and loneliness. They have come to be regarded as health assets for some communities.  

Councillor Binda Rai, cabinet member for health and adult services said: “ This is a simple initiative but one that can help improve the lives of individuals and make our communities stronger.  For this reason, I am delighted that the council is supporting this initiative.

“The AOK benches provide an opportunity for Ealing’s people to come together and  provide support for each other, whilst building resilience in the face of all the challenges. I would encourage people to come along to the AOK bench for a chat, which could make a real difference to someone’s daily life”.

This is part of a campaign from Thrive LDN that is showcasing and celebrating individuals and organisations across London to help build strength and resilience, of which there are many examples in Ealing. 

The campaign continues Thrive LDN’s citywide, open conversation to encourage everyone to think, talk and act more when it comes to mental wellbeing for them and their communities. 

Share pictures of you using the bench using the #ThriveLDN or tagging in @ThriveLDN