The first Chatty Bench by The Audley Foundation

Now in situ at Audley Chalfont Dene

The first Chatty Bench has been installed at St Peter’s Garden xxxxx, with funds raised by the magnificent owners at Audley Chalfont Dene…..

The Audley Group launched their new Foundation charity with the stated aim of "making a lasting difference to the lives of older people" who live near Audley retirement villages. It quickly became accepted that one of the major problems facing these local residents was that of loneliness, so in order to tackle this, the very first project funded by The Foundation was the provision of seating close to villages where local people might chat and perhaps form friendships to ease their loneliness. We call this seating ChattyBenches. difference to the lives of older people" and the written invitation to passers-by to "rest awhile for conversation and good company". We have already received enthusiastic feedback from locals and one that has already made a difference to the recognition of The Foundation locally; we are encouraged to continue ourfund-raisingefforts.

In school playgrounds through the country you will find seats, usually called friendship seats, where any pupil who needs comfort, a chat or simply reassurance can sit; the child will soon be joined by someone able to offer support and help. Our Chatty Benches aim to extend this type of seating to the more mature, and our aim was to instal a bench near to every Audley village. Fundraisingbegan.