A new Take Some Breathing Space Bench has been unveiled by Change Mental Health in Dunfermline’s Pittencrieff Park, bringing a reminder of mental health support into one of the city’s busiest green spaces.

The opening event took place during Mental Health Awareness Week and was made possible with support from Carnegie Dunfermline Trust. The new bench in a part of a wider national initiative led by NHS24 Breathing Space, bringing mental health support into everyday settings where people live, walk and spend time.

Located in a well-used area of the park near the Glen Pavillon and the cafe, the new bench offers a place to pause, reflect or sit with someone for a conversation. It also provides clear signposting to the NHS24 Breathing Space, making it easier for people to take a step towards getting help when they need it.

Over 100 Take Some Breathing Space benches have been installed across Scotland, with the one in Pittencrieff Park being the third collaboration by Change Mental Health and NHS 24 Breathing Space. In previous years, benches have been unveiled in Golspie outside Change Mental Health’s resource centre and in Kirkcaldy’s Beveridge Park. Benches are each placed in visible, central locations to bring support closer to local communities.

The Dunfermline bench builds on Change Mental Health’s long-standing presence in Fife, where the charity has supported people across communities for over 30 years through services for carers, people experiencing voices and tackling mental health issues early.

Susan Grant, Head of Fife and Tayside Services at Change Mental Health, said:

“We’ve been part of communities across Fife for a long time and we know how much difference it makes when support is right there in your community. Putting a bench here in the centre of Dunfermline makes that support part of everyday life – whether that’s a chat, a breather or just knowing there’s somewhere you can go.”

Janine Norris, Grant Officer at Carnegie Dunfermline Trust, spoke about the importance of creating spaces where people feel able to pause and reach out for support:

“Carnegie Dunfermline Trust is proud to support this bench, in partnership with Change Mental Health and NHS 24 Breathing Space. Life can feel overwhelming at times and this space is a reminder that you don’t have to face things alone.

“This year, the theme of Mental Health Awareness Week is ‘Action’ and it reminds us that looking after our mental health can start with small steps. Taking action for our mental health can be as simple as pausing, taking a breath or reaching out for support. We hope this bench will offer comfort to anyone who takes a moment to sit here and give them encouragement to take that step, knowing support is always within reach.”

Local partners, including Fife Council, supported the installation, ensuring the bench is positioned in a quiet, accessible part of the park where people can take time out when they need it.