Platform Donate Buddy Bench to Encourage Friendship at Local School in Beeston

In recognition of World Mental Health Day on the 10th of October 2023, Platform Home Ownership have donated a buddy bench to Beeston Rylands Junior School. The bench has been inscribed with ‘if you can be anything, be kind’ to send an important message to the pupils.

The aim of the donation is to spread awareness about mental health, which is prevalent amongst many, including young children. 

Our hope is that through the buddy bench, often termed as a friendship bench, the children of Beeston Rylands Junior School will feel encouraged to speak to other children or to their teachers if they need support or a friend.  

Catherine Turner, Headteacher at Beeston Rylands Junior School, said: “On behalf of the pupils and staff at Beeston Rylands Junior School, I would like to thank Platform Home Ownership for the donation of a buddy bench. 

“The playground is the perfect location to place this beautiful bench and the children will be encouraged to chat to their friends and socialise whilst using it. The bench is a welcome addition to our grounds.”

The Junior School is close to Platform’s ‘The Maltings’ development, located in Beeston. The aim is not only to provide much-needed affordable housing to the area, but to also engage and give back to the local community. 

Kelly Rigley, Regional Sales Manager at Platform Home Ownership, said: “We hope that by donating a buddy bench, it will encourage children at Beeston Rylands Junior School to talk openly to each other and staff about how they’re feeling. World Mental Health Day is an important initiative worldwide, and we relish the opportunity to reach out to schools and organisations within our community and provide support for such a deserving cause.”