19 March 2026
Benches aimed at encouraging people to chat and connect and helping them access mental health support are now in place on the University of Reading’s Whiteknights campus.
Plaques have been added to the three blue benches between Edith Morley building and the Library as part of the HelloBench initiative – which aims to combat loneliness and isolation across the UK.
The plaques on the benches signpost to wellbeing resources for staff and students, and external support available to members of the community.
The benches invite people to sit and have a conversation, harnessing the positive power of connecting with others.
The University was approached by the founder of HelloBench last year and agreed to support their ambition to have benches installed across the country by adding three to campus.
Molli Cleaver, Community Engagement Manager at the University of Reading, said: "We're really pleased to be part of the HelloBench initiative and to bring these benches to our campus.
“Loneliness and isolation can affect anyone, and creating spaces that invite people to sit and talk is a small but meaningful step towards a more connected community."
The plaques were officially launched on University Mental Health Day, 12 March. The theme for this year was ‘Human Connection’.
Reading received a University Mental Health Charter Award in May 2025, and in October launched a Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy to support the Charter commitments.
The benches support a range of wellbeing and mental health resources already available for staff and students.
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