A self-illuminating bench has been installed in Mote Park to help people struggling with their mental health.

*Trigger warning: discussions of suicide and suicide prevention.*

Fitted with solar panels, the bench shines as a beacon in the night and has QR codes directly linking people to mental health support. The new installation was recently officially opened by the Mayor of Maidstone and has been made possible through a partnership between Maidstone Borough Council, the Legend on the Bench charity and the East Kent Spurs Supporters Club (EKSSC).

The benches are created and installed by Legend on the Bench, a suicide prevention charity. The organisation was founded by Michelle Hazard in memory of her son Jay Lee Mead. Michelle’s brother, Micky Hazard, former Tottenham Hotspur player, is an ambassador of the charity.

Inspired by the mission of the former Spurs player, the East Kent Spurs Official Supporters Club have been fundraising for the charity.

Evolving from a football supporters’ group, they have become one of Kent’s most impactful grassroots community organisations with a programme focused on mental health, suicide prevention and wellbeing, all while being united through football.

Studies have shown there is a connection between access to green space and our mental health. Time spent in green spaces reduces the risk of anxiety, depression and chronic stress.

The bench is located near Mote Park's North Entrance off Ashford Road, close to the Mote Park Water Sports Centre and waterfall.

The Mayor of Maidstone, Councillor Brian Clark, joined the unveiling of the bench and said:

“Many people struggle with their mental health at some point in their lives, and it is important that support is easy to find. This bench provides a simple way for people to access information, start conversations and know help is available if they need it.”

Cllr David Naghi, Maidstone Borough Council Cabinet Member for Community Cohesion and Safety, added:

“This support is vital and shows the power of what communities can do when they come together. This inspiring addition to our park is a reminder that no one should struggle in silence and if you need help, support is always there.”

The new installation joins a growing network of 21 suicide prevention benches in Kent and 164 across the UK and Ireland. The East Kent Spurs Supporters Club has funded 14 of the Kent benches, making this the largest rollout of the benches in the county.

Speaking about the Club’s role in the project, Maria Howdon, Secretary of East Kent Spurs Official Supporters Club, said:

“We wanted to create something visible, permanent and meaningful within our communities. The benches send a simple message: support is available and nobody should feel they have to face difficult times alone.

“To see these benches installed through the generosity of local people, businesses and supporters is an incredible achievement and reflects the support the campaign has received from communities across Kent.”

Anyone needing urgent mental health support can contact NHS by calling 111 and select the mental health option, or visit their local mental health support service for advice and assistance.

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